
71st National Film Awards 2025: Big Wins, Emotional Moments & Viral Highlights from Indian Cinema’s Most Prestigious Stage
The 71st National Film Awards 2025 was a grand celebration of Indian cinema, honouring stories and performances that touched millions. President Droupadi Murmu presented the awards at a glittering ceremony held in Delhi. Here are the big wins and the special moments that made the evening truly unforgettable.
Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s 12th Fail starring Vikrant Massey emerged as the Best Feature Film, winning hearts with its powerful storytelling. Vikrant Massey called his win “nothing short of surreal,” dedicating it to his mother and wife and promising to continue growing with every role.
The Best Actor award was shared by two stellar performers—Shah Rukh Khan for his hard-hitting dual role in Jawan and Vikrant Massey for his moving portrayal of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma in 12th Fail. For SRK, this was a milestone as he took home his first National Award after decades of hardwork, and his children Suhana and Aryan marked the occasion with a touching tribute, writing, “This Silver is Gold.”
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For her emotionally intense role in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, Rani Mukerji was honoured with the Best Actress Award, moving audiences with her humility as she bowed to the stage before receiving the honour.
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Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani brought joy to its entire team as it bagged the award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, with proud and emotional Karan Johar and producer Apoorva Mehta receiving the honour.
Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery won Best Hindi Film. Directed by Yashowardhan Mishra and starring Sanya Malhotra, the dramedy became the first Hindi Netflix Original to bag a National Award.
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Shilpa Rao won Best Female Playback Singer for the soulful Chaleya in Jawan, while Vaibhavi Merchant took home the award for Best Choreography for the vibrant Dhindhora Baje Re in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.
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In the acting categories, M. S. Bhaskar was honoured with Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Parking, and Janki Bodiwala received Best Supporting Actress for her role in Vash.
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Beyond the wins, the ceremony gave fans moments to remember. A picture of Shah Rukh Khan and Mohanlal sharing a warm hug, with Rani Mukerji smiling beside them, quickly went viral—an image many called “cinema royalty in one frame.” Mohanlal received the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his contribution to the film industry.
PC: Times Now
The evening was a perfect blend of recognition, emotion, and history—showcasing why the National Awards remain the pinnacle of honour in Indian cinema.