Shah Rukh Khan showcased his trademark wit at the preview launch of his son Aryan Khan’s directorial debut web series ‘The Ba***ds of Bollywood’ in Mumbai on yesterday.
The actor appeared in a black blazer and trousers with his right hand bandaged, prompting questions from the press. Addressing reporters, he jokingly said, “Before you ask, I’ll tell you. I injured my hand. It wasn’t a minor surgery, it was a major one. Recovery will take a month to six weeks. But one hand is enough for me to receive the National Award.”
Often referred to as the ‘Badshah of Bollywood’ and ‘King of Romance’, Shah Rukh enjoys a global fan base estimated at over 1.5 billion. In a career spanning more than three decades, he has won numerous international honours and multiple Filmfare Awards, yet the Indian National Film Award had always eluded him, until now.
At the 2025 National Film Awards, Shah Rukh will share the Best Actor prize with Vikrant Massey for his role in ‘Twelfth Fail’. Khan’s award comes for his dual performance in the blockbuster ‘Jawan’ (2023).
While fans welcomed the recognition, many argued he should have received the honour long ago for acclaimed performances in films such as ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’, ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’, ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham’, ‘My Name Is Khan’ and ‘Chennai Express’.
The 59-year-old began his screen career in television with ‘Fauji’ and ‘Circus’ before making his film debut in ‘Deewana’ (1992), playing the role of a wealthy singer opposite the late Divya Bharti.
Over the years he has weathered ups and downs at the box office, balancing major hits with occasional setbacks, while also branching into production and sports franchise ownership.
Despite the challenges, Shah Rukh has remained one of Bollywood’s most enduringly popular and highest-paid stars.
In 2023 alone he headlined three releases: ‘Pathaan’, ‘Jawan’ and ‘Dunki’. He is currently filming ‘King’, slated for release next year.