In a moment that felt like destiny coming full circle, acclaimed filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker penned a deeply moving tribute to Shah Rukh Khan, as the superstar finally clinched the prestigious National Film Award for Best Actor for his electrifying performance in Jawan.
Gowariker, who served as the chairperson of the National Awards jury this year, wrote:“What a journey we have had… each forging one's own path and today, to come together on this prestigious Dais, which is the highest award of our country, to honour your incredible craft! Congratulations Shah...”
For fans of both SRK and Gowariker, the message was far more than a congratulatory tweet — it was a poignant reflection of a bond spanning over three decades.
Long before Gowariker was the director of classics like Lagaan and Swades, he appeared on-screen with Shah Rukh Khan in the 1994 cult gem Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa. The film remains a fan-favourite for showcasing one of SRK’s most vulnerable performances — and marked the beginning of a creative friendship rooted in sincerity and mutual respect.
A decade later, their paths crossed again — this time with Gowariker behind the camera. He cast Khan as Mohan Bhargava in Swades (2004), a film that would go on to define an era of meaningful cinema. Despite widespread critical acclaim and a loyal fan following, SRK’s performance was overlooked for the National Award that year — a decision that still stings many fans to this day.
It’s no surprise, then, that Ashutosh Gowariker's tribute stirred up powerful emotions among fans. For many, this recognition in 2025 feels like a long-overdue acknowledgment not just of Jawan, but of Swades — and every layered performance SRK has delivered over the years.
One fan encapsulated the sentiment beautifully: “This award may be for Jawan, but it belongs to Swades too. Thank you, Ashutosh sir, for giving us that masterpiece. This feels like justice, finally.”
There’s a poetic symmetry to Gowariker being on the jury panel that awarded SRK his first-ever National Award. It’s a culmination of years of cinematic collaboration, shared ambition, and unwavering belief in each other’s craft.
As emotions flooded timelines and fan pages, one recurring request emerged: a re-release of Swades in theatres to mark this milestone. It’s a testament to the film’s timeless message — and to the performance that many believe should have earned SRK this award years ago.
Shah Rukh Khan’s National Award is not just a personal triumph — it’s a moment of celebration for Indian cinema. And as Ashutosh Gowariker’s words echo in the hearts of fans, this historic recognition feels less like a final destination, and more like a glorious checkpoint in a journey that continues to inspire.
Check out the post: