Shah Rukh Khan Reflects on His National Award Journey: ‘I Always Act Well’

Shah Rukh Khan Wins His First National Award

In September 2025, Shah Rukh Khan finally clinched the National Award for Best Actor, a remarkable achievement in his illustrious career. He received this honor for his role in Atlee’s film, **Jawan**.

The year has indeed been monumental for the superstar, who expressed feelings of sadness about not receiving this prestigious award earlier in his career, which spans over three decades.

Reflections on His Journey

Shah Rukh recently celebrated his 60th birthday with fans in Mumbai, where he reminisced about various phases of his career. He noted that receiving his first National Award felt like a validation of his hard work.

“10-15 years ago, I used to feel disheartened when I didn’t receive awards because I believed I gave my best in every performance,” he shared.

His passion for acting has always pushed him to strive for excellence. “I work very hard, but sometimes I felt overlooked when my efforts went unacknowledged. Creative work does require some form of validation,” he explained.

Nonetheless, Shah Rukh now finds deep satisfaction in connecting with fans, stating, “Whether I win an award or not, meeting those who appreciate my work brings the most joy.”

Winning the National Award for **Jawan** was a significant milestone for him, and he expressed gratitude towards the committee for choosing him. He humorously recounted that his friend Ashutosh Gowariker, who was part of the jury, would have recognized his talent even earlier for his own film, **Swades**.

A Long-Awaited Achievement

This National Award not only marks a first for Shah Rukh Khan but represents a significant highlight in his exceptional career. Despite being a household name and receiving numerous accolades, this specific recognition eluded him for years.

His wife, Gauri Khan, took to social media to celebrate his win, sharing a heartfelt note about his journey and dedication. She plans to design a special space to showcase his latest accolade.

With over 30 years in the film industry, Shah Rukh has captivated audiences and garnered numerous accolades, including 14 Filmfare Awards and the Padma Shri. His journey continues as he prepares for his upcoming film, **King**, which will feature his daughter, Suhana Khan, alongside other stars.