The 71st National Film Awards, held on September 23, 2025, at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, celebrated the finest achievements in Indian cinema for the year 2023. The ceremony was graced by President Droupadi Murmu, who honored the recipients with the prestigious Rajat Kamal (Silver Lotus) medallion, certificate, and cash rewards.
Best Actor Award: Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey
In a historic first, Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey jointly received the Best Actor award. Khan was recognized for his compelling performance in Jawan, while Massey was lauded for his role in 12th Fail. The award, accompanied by a ₹2 lakh cash prize, was equally divided between the two actors, granting each ₹1 lakh, along with the Rajat Kamal and certificate.
Best Actress Award: Rani Mukerji
Rani Mukerji earned the Best Actress accolade for her poignant portrayal in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway. Unlike the shared Best Actor award, the Best Actress honor was conferred solely upon her, entitling her to the full ₹2 lakh cash prize, in addition to the Rajat Kamal and certificate.
Significance of the Awards
The National Film Awards, established in 1954, are among the most esteemed recognitions in Indian cinema. They honor excellence across various categories, including acting, direction, and technical achievements. The 71st edition highlighted the diverse talents of actors from different film industries, underscoring the rich tapestry of Indian filmmaking.
