Shah Rukh Khan Wins First National Award After 33 Years in Cinema

Shah Rukh Khan, a legendary actor with a career that has spanned over three decades, has finally won his first-ever National Film Award for his role in Jawan, a career-building and emotional milestone for one of India’s greatest stars.

The winners of the 71st National Film Awards were announced today, and Khan was awarded the National Film Award in the Best Actor category for his compelling role in Jawan. Khan wins his first National Award after an iconic 33-year career, and it's a long time coming since he has had several career-best performances that just seemed to be overlooked.

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The prestigious award has avoided SRK until now

Often dubbed the King of Bollywood, Khan, 57, has seen popularity in films and numerous critical successes since his debut in Deewana (1992). He quickly became one of the most famous actors, if not the most famous actor in the country, and has starred in critically celebrated films, blockbuster hits, historical blockbusters and substantial roles in films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Swades, Chak De! India, My Name is Khan, to name a few. But the coveted National Award is one of the highest awards Khan has not experienced until now.

In Swades (2004) he played Mohan Bhargava which reconnects him with his home as a NASA engineer. His low-key, self-reflective performance emboldened him and took him away from romantic hero "Netflix" type performance. Although he was celebrated by critics the National Award for Best Actor was awarded to Saif Ali Khan for a rom-com Hum Tum.

Then came Chak De! India in 2007, where Shah Rukh played Kabir Khan, an unheralded hockey couch seeking redemption. A powerful, quietly intense performance in which the film won the National Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. Yet again, Shah Rukh did not get the award. The Best Actor award went to Hrithik Roshan for Dhoom 2 that year.

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In 2010, Shah Rukh shocked audiences with My Name Is Khan portraying Rizwan Khan, a man with Asperger's Syndrome trying to fit in the post-9/11 world. The performance was lauded internationally and won him awards globally. However, the National Award for Best Actor was awarded to Amitabh Bachchan for Paa, playing a child with progeria.

It may take years, but recognition validates what audiences have believed for a long time: Shah Rukh Khan is beloved not only as a superstar but is one of the best actors Indian cinema has produced.

Other Accolades for Shah Rukh

Apart from finally winning the National Award, Shah Rukh Khan over the years has been recognised worldwide for his contribution to cinema. He has received some of the highest accolades, including the Padma Shri from the Government of India, and two of France’s highest civilian decorations - Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, and the Legion of Honour.

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