National Film Awards 2025: Shah Rukh Khan, Vikrant Massey, and Rani Mukerji Shine Bright in Top Categories, Kathal Bags BIG

Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey win Best Actor; Rani Mukerji wins Best Actress; Kathal wins Best Hindi Film at the 71st National Awards.

The 71st National Film Awards were announced with a lot of pomp as they celebrated the best in Indian cinema in 2025. The mix of veterans and younger stars that occurred this year in the awards was quite unexpected but refreshing. Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey shared the Best Actor award, as the top films of the year were either trying to emulate them, mirror them, or set the vast boundaries.

Rani Mukerji was given the award for best actress, which she won for her soul-moving role, which, according to the critics, was one of the greatest roles in her career. Adding to the list of winners, the Hindi film Kathal (Jackfruit), which is a satirical-based social drama film, won the award for Best Hindi Film, and this is another indication of the appreciation of content-driven cinema.

Shah Rukh and Vikrant: Two Generations, One Legacy

Best Actor was an occasion that created a buzz not only because of the names but also because of what led to their presence here. Shah Rukh Khan, commonly referred to as the King of Bollywood, did not disappoint as he struck a balance between the lovable character and the intense one, reminding people why he was considered an icon. In the meantime, Vikrant Massey, who is known to be of subtle brilliance, was also given a nod for a highly poignant and socially conscious act. The twin victory brings together two generations of the Hindi movie industry.

Rani Mukerji’s Resilience and the Rise of Women-Centric Stories

The victory of Rani Mukerji brings back the heroic, powerful female narratives into the Indian film industry. Her image was not only commended due to its sentimental quality but also for the way it broke the norms in society. This victory resonates with increased acceptance of rich, multidimensional portrayals of women who are not one-dimensional but rather have multiple sides.

Kathal’s Victory: A Nod to Satire and Social Relevance

The fact that Kathal won Best Hindi Film is a good indication that content is king. The film was filled with acute social criticism delivered in the simple manner of small-town living. The national-level appreciation of it demonstrates that Indian cinema is adopting the approach of genre-bending narrative.