Mukesh Khanna Defends Shah Rukh Khan’s National Award Win: “He’s Earned It After 40 Years of Hard Work”

Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna has spoken up in support of Shah Rukh Khan, whose National Film Award win recently stirred up debates across the film industry and social media. Amid mixed reactions, Khanna called the honour “well-deserved” and pointed out SRK’s long-standing contribution to Indian cinema, reminding critics that recognition after four decades of hard work shouldn’t come as a surprise.

A Divided Reaction to SRK’s Win

Shah Rukh Khan received the National Award for Best Actor for his roles in Jawan and Pathaan. While many celebrated the win as overdue, others questioned whether mass entertainers deserve top national honours. Critics argued that such awards should focus more on artistic merit than commercial success.

But Mukesh Khanna, known for his iconic role as Shaktimaan, disagreed. He said that consistent hard work, dedication, and mass connection also matter when recognising a lifetime of contribution. According to him, dismissing a performer like Shah Rukh—who has sustained success and impact across decades—is unfair.

Khanna’s Take on Film Awards

Khanna acknowledged that award selections often spark controversy, especially when they involve big stars. But he urged people to look at the broader picture: “It’s not about one or two films. Shah Rukh Khan has delivered entertainment, emotions, and unforgettable performances for 40 years. That deserves respect.”

He also addressed concerns that popular actors are prioritised over art house talent. His response was straightforward—both can coexist. “There’s space for meaningful cinema and mass cinema. Awards should reflect that range.”

Relevance for Indian Audiences Beyond the Big Cities

For fans in Tier 2 cities and smaller towns, SRK’s journey—from Delhi boy to global superstar—has always struck a chord. His win feels like a personal celebration for many who grew up watching him on TV and theatre screens. Unlike niche films, blockbusters like Jawan and Pathaan are widely accessible and relatable across regions. That emotional connection, Mukesh Khanna said, shouldn’t be discounted.

A Wider Conversation About Recognition

This debate brings back the age-old question: what defines great cinema? Is it pure artistry, or the ability to connect with the masses? Mukesh Khanna believes it’s both. While critics have a right to voice concerns, dismissing Shah Rukh Khan’s win outright ignores the cultural and emotional impact of his work.

Conclusion

Awards in any field are bound to face scrutiny. But as Mukesh Khanna puts it, Shah Rukh Khan’s National Award win isn’t just about a particular role—it’s about four decades of defining what it means to be a Hindi film star. And whether one agrees or not, his influence is hard to deny