On September 5, Vikrant Massey took to Instagram to wish filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra a heartfelt happy birthday — but it was more than just a birthday post. Falling on Teacher’s Day, the message became an emotional tribute to the man Massey now credits as a mentor, a guide, and a life-changing force.
He wrote, “Happiest Birthday Sir 🤗♥️Thank you for being my guiding light. Just like teachers should be. I love you 🤗Happy Teachers Day too ♥️"
In a few simple lines, Massey summed up a bond that runs far deeper than the usual actor-director collaboration. A bond that was forged during the making of 12th Fail — the film that not only changed the course of Massey’s career but redefined his place in Indian cinema.
Released in 2023, 12th Fail was based on the real-life journey of Manoj Kumar Sharma, an IPS officer who rose from extreme poverty and repeated academic failures to clear one of the toughest exams in the world — the UPSC.
In Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s hands, the film became more than just a biopic. It became a story of hope, grit, and second chances. And at its emotional core stood Vikrant Massey, delivering a performance so raw, so deeply moving, that it silenced critics and moved audiences to tears. He was announced as the co winner of National Award of the Best actor at the 71st National Film Awards for 12th Fail, sharing the honour with Shah Rukh Khan for Jawan. The film itself won Best Feature Film, a moment of collective celebration for everyone involved.
This recognition not only cemented Massey’s position as one of the finest actors of his generation but also validated the years of quiet, consistent work he had put into his craft.
Riding the wave of critical acclaim and audience love, Vikrant Massey is now gearing up for a powerful slate of upcoming projects. He will next be seen in Romeo, Yaar Jigri, and Talaakhon Mein Ek.
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