The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting recently announced winners for the 71st National Film Awards, honoring outstanding contributions from 2023. In a landmark result, 12th Fail was named Best Feature Film. Actors Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey shared the Best Actor Award, while Rani Mukerji secured Best Actress for her role in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway.
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12th Fail Crowned Best Feature Film
Directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, 12th Fail also earned praise for its socially relevant narrative. The film, based on IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma’s inspiring journey, resonated with both critics and audiences. It reflects resilience, idealism, and bureaucratic challenges.
Joint Best Actor: Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey
Shah Rukh Khan received his first-ever National Award for his powerful performance in Jawan, portraying a citizen fighting a corrupt system. Vikrant Massey was co-awarded for his portrayal of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma in 12th Fail. Their roles embodied courage and moral conviction.
Rani Mukerji Wins Best Actress
Rani Mukerji was awarded Best Actress for her emotionally charged performance in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway. As a determined mother fighting for her children’s custody in Norway, her portrayal won national acclaim. The film depicted her character’s unwavering spirit in a cross-cultural legal battle.
Sudipto Sen Wins Best Direction for The Kerala Story
Director Sudipto Sen earned the Best Director Award for his bold and controversial film The Kerala Story. The film, widely discussed for its narrative boldness, also won accolades for its distinct cinematic vision.
Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani Earned Best Entertainment Film
Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani won Best Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. Celebrated for its vibrant visuals, strong performances, and family centric story, the movie balanced mass appeal with critical recognition.
Sam Bahadur Wins for Promoting National & Social Values
Meghna Gulzar’s Sam Bahadur, based on field marshal Sam Manekshaw’s life, received the award for Best Film Promoting National Values. The film underscored leadership, sacrifice, and integrity through Manekshaw’s journey.
Other Notable National Award Winners
In Hindi cinema, Animal by Ranbir Kapoor swept three technical categories—including Best Background Score, Sound Design, and Special Mention in Recording. The film’s gritty style and atmospheric sound played a key role in its recognition.
Other noteworthy wins in the Feature Film Section include Best Debut Director for Marathi film Aatmapamphlet, and Best Children’s Film for Naal 2. Telugu movies Hanu-Man and Malayalam films like Pukkalam and Parking also received awards across animation, script, editing, and acting categories.
This year’s National Awards showcased a remarkable blend of veteran performances and emerging talent. Shah Rukh Khan’s first National Award, Rani Mukerji’s poignant role, and the recognition of a diverse spectrum of regional cinema highlight India’s cinematic richness.
The awards reaffirm the industry’s commitment to storytelling that matters—blending artistic excellence with social themes, emotional narratives, and mass entertainment.
