
The real meaning of Shah Rukh Khan's National Award-winning speech
King Khan, as he is fondly known among his fans, began his speech with an expected expression of joy at receiving the award:He first greeted everyone and said, "Namashkar and Adaab. Needless to say, I am overwhelmed with gratitude, pride and humility. To be honoured with a National Award is a moment that I will cherish for a lifetime. Thank you so much to the jury, the Chairman, the I&B Ministry, and to everyone who thought I was worthy of this honour.I want to thank all my directors, writers - especially for the years 2023. So, thank you Raju sir (Rajkumar Hirani), Sid (Siddharth Anand), and especially, thanks to Atlee sir and his team for giving me the opportunity in 'Jawan', and trusting me to deliver, and be worthy of this award. Atlee sir, this is like you say, 'mass...'"The superstar went on to acknowledge the hardwork of his team and those who stand by him through highs and lows. "I want to thank my team, my management, who work tirelessly with me. They bear with me, my eccentricities, my impatience and give me the full attention and make me look much better than I am - like even now in this video. This award, without their perseverance and love, would not be possible at all. Thank you so much for everything you do," he said.Of course, there was a mention of his family - because no one ever achieves anything in isolation"My wife and kids, who, over the last few years, have given me so much more love and care as if I am the kid in the house. And want only the best for me. They know my obsession with cinema takes me away from them, but they all bear it with a smile and allow me the time. Thank you very much for that." And then it happened. What SRK said next meant so much more. It was not just an actor acknowledging a prestigious honour, it was someone who knows exactly what he's doing, and where he's going from here.Decoding SRK's National Award speechShah Rukh said a National Award was more than just an "achievement." He called it a reminder that what he does "matters."Let's rewind to understand the weight of that statement. Shah Rukh, an actor who has represented Indian cinema for over three decades, received a National Award at a time he likely expected it the least, and for a film which, while commercially successful, was not necessarily seen as a path-breaking piece of cinema. This moment also came during a deeply personal period for him.'Jawan', the film that brought him the award, became symbolic of SRK's personality, pain and purpose. The very testament to what he could endure, feel and how he could use his craft to express all of that. In 2023, when he brought the Atlee-directorial to the big screen, it was widely seen as the statement that he never publicly made during the Aryan Khan case.advertisementAryan, SRK's son, was falsely implicated in a drug-related case in 2021. Chats showing Shah Rukh pleading with the then-NCB (Narcotics Control Bureau) officer were leaked online - revealing a father who would do anything to protect his child. That very sentiment found its cinematic expression in 'Jawan'.In the film, SRK played both Azad Rathore and his father, Captain Vikram Rathore. A particular dialogue stirred conversations: "Bete ko haath lagane se pehle, baap se baat kar [Before you lay a hand on the son, talk to the father]" - a line many interpreted as a powerful response to those who had vilified his son, mistaking SRK's silence for weakness.The truth that mattersSo, when Shah Rukh spoke of what this award meant, and what kind of cinema he wanted to be known for, he said it was proof that he was "being heard in the world full of noise."He didn't stop there. SRK called the award a "responsibility" to stand by the "truth"."Ye award mere liye reminder hai ki acting sirf kaam nahi hai, ek zimmedari hai: screen par sach dikhane ki zimmedari, aur sabke pyaar ka main bahot bahot aabhaari hoon [This award is a reminder for me that acting is not just work, it's a responsibility. A responsibility to show the truth on screen, and I am deeply, deeply grateful for all the love]." advertisementAnother easter egg in his speech - a subtle pushback to those who keep suggesting he should retire now that he's 60. SRK called the award his "fuel to continue", not his "finish line", making it clear that he's nowhere near close to hanging his boots, just now, and just like that."A National Award is not just about achievement. It's a reminder that what I do, matters. It tells me to keep going, keep working hard, keep creating and keep serving cinema. In a world full of noise - to be heard, to be truly heard - is a blessing. And I promise to you to use the recognition not as a finish line, but as a fuel to continue striving, learning and giving back." He also spoke in Hindi - a nod to belonging not just to the idea of India, but to its people, its soil - the 'Bharat'.advertisement"Aur Bharat sarkaar ka, is samman ke liye bahot, bahot shukriya."And then, in his signature style, he opened his arms for his fans. Shah Rukh Khan dedicated the award to them and said he was grateful for "all the love and tears" they had given him over the years."And then lastly to my fans, thank you for all the cheers, all the tears and thank you for pausing, while scrolling, while watching my work. This award is for you, as each award is. And yeah, I would love to spread my arms for you and share my love..." He ended his speech with a promise - to return to the screen, in full King style, for his audience. To entertain, speak, and to stand tall.SRK concluded, "Don't worry, keep the popcorn ready, and I will be back in theatres and soon on the screen. So, till then, just with one hand...ready." Shah Rukh Khan's National Award speech felt like a declaration of his resilience, rebellion, love for cinema, and the unshaken bond he shares with his audience. In his own poetic, layered way, SRK reminded us that success is not always found in the golden trophies, but in the ability to survive the storm, standing tall, and still choosing to spread your arms with love.- EndsTrending Reel

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Hindustan Times
2 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
Coolie movie review: Lokesh Kanagaraj's Vikram-lite is scattered and messy; Rajinikanth still packs a punch
Coolie movie review Cast: Rajinikanth, Nagarjuna, Upendra, Soubin Shahir, Shruti Haasan, Rachita Ram, Sathyaraj, and Aamir Khan Director: Lokesh Kanagaraj Rating: ★★.5 The coming together of Rajinikanth, arguably the biggest mass star in Indian cinema since Amitabh Bachchan, and Lokesh Kanagaraj, one of the few directors in Tamil cinema to have mastered this new-mass grammar, was widely anticipated. Having given Vijay and Kamal Haasan their biggest hits, Lokesh was considered the perfect candidate to bring back 'vintage' Rajinikanth to the screen. That the superstar still had it was evident with Jailer's success. Perhaps it was that heavy burden of expectations, or simply Lokesh's lofty ambitions, but Coolie does not simply fall short, but stumbles and staggers its way along that route. It is a confusing film, as much as it is confused, lifted largely by Rajinikanth's undimmed aura, Aniruddh's masterful score, and some brilliantly shot fight sequences. Coolie review: Lokesh Kanagaraj's film answers a question - can Rajinikanth's swag save an average film? Deva (Rajinikanth) runs a hostel in a mansion in Chennai. But, he has a dark past, one that threatens to return after his old friend Rajashekhar (Sathyaraj) is killed. Deva must now protect his friend's daughters (although we focus largely on Shruti Haasan, ignoring the other two), and infiltrate the gang of Simon (Nagarjuna), who may hold the key to his friend's death. But hounding him is Simon's lackey, the unpredictable Dayal (Soubin Shahir), leading Deva to wonder if he has bitten off more than he can chew. Let us first address the elephant in the room. An ageing man with a dark past is spurred into action due to the death of a loved one, and now he must dismantle a criminal enterprise led by a mercurial villain. And oh, there is a bigger baddie somewhere played by a superstar. This is the plot of both Vikram and Coolie. The difference is merely in the presentation. But while in Vikram, Lokesh was very much in command of the narrative, in Coolie, one can feel he has let the reins go a little too much. The film meanders in all directions, ending up as almost a diluted version of his 2021 hit. And sadly, it lacks many of the things that made Vikram so enjoyable - cohesion, crispness, and direction. Rajinkanth is the heart and soul of the film. At 74, the ageing superstar still lords over the screen, drawing loud cheers and whistles even at the twitch of an eyebrow. Very few actors can manage this connect with the audience across cultures. Even in a film as uneven as Coolie, Rajinikanth's presence and persona are among the saving graces. From meta references to signature cigarette twirls, Rajinikanth excels in everything he does on screen. His presence alone is enough to make the film exponentially watchable. Nagarjuna's villain is menacing and ruthless, but not very impactful. The flashback sequences featuring a de-aged Rajini are also done well, blending nostalgia with mass for an audience who has not seen Rajinikanth prime on the big screen in this manner. But, to me, the real star of the film is Anirudh. The young composer has been proving himself time and again, be it Vikram, Jailer, Jawan, or Leo. In Coolie, he may not have set the internet on fire with a definitive track (think Rolex Theme, Jawan whistle, or Hukum). But with his score, he elevates the film in its dull moments. At any moment when Coolie threatens to cling to the tropes and go to templates, Aniruddh saves the day. Anbariv's action, presented beautifully by Lokesh, adds to that audio-visual charm. The combine yet again gives you action that is slick and does invite a gasp or two. But after a while, you do feel, if Lokesh is settling into a pattern, which is less of a signature and more of a type. Nagarjuna, playing a rare negative role in a commercial film, does well. But again, he cannot match up to some of the memorable villains that this genre of cinema has given in the last half a decade alone. A mass actioner's hero shines only because he is fighting a memorable villain. Despite the superstar's best attempts (and a decent performance), the script does not allow him to be memorable. He is convincing, just not impactful. That job is done by Soubin Shahir. He has the more fleshed-out role, better-written scenes, and a character that most actors would kill for. To Soubin's credit, he makes it his own. If his dance was the talk of the town before the release, his scenes and dialogue will flood the internet now. Soubin Shahir gives the most memorable performance of Coolie. Shruti Haasan has done well with the role she has, even matching Rajini in certain confrontational scenes. Rachita Ram also leaves an impact. But the two superstarry cameos are very uneven. Upendra gets more to do on screen than just be. Everything from his entry to fight scenes has fan service written all over it. But Lokesh proves again that if done right, that is not a bad thing to do. He and Rajinikanth fighting in tandem, like a tag team of wrestlers in a battle royal, is a visual treat and something that fans of both actors will cherish. On the other hand, Aamir Khan's Dahaa is confusing to say the least. If Lokesh wanted a Rolex 2.0 with this, he failed here. Aamir does brilliantly as the unpredictable gangster, but the presence of the character adds very little to the narrative. With Rolex, there was a promise of a payoff. But with Dahaa, it is just an attempt at 'pan-Indiaing' this film, which feels very inorganic. Coolie is not a bad film. Far from it! But it certainly is a squandered opportunity. The combination of Rajinikanth and Lokesh should have given the viewers much more than what it is.


Time of India
6 minutes ago
- Time of India
Mumbai's Restaurants Plate Up Patriotic Menus for Independence Day
This August 15, Mumbai's top restaurants aren't just raising the tricolour — they're raising the flavour bar. From coastal curries to plant-based innovations, chefs across the city are curating menus that pay homage to India's culinary heritage while adding their own creative touch. At ITC Maratha's Peshwa Pavilion, the team is offering 'A Celebration of Flavour, the Indian Way', a special lunch inspired by the country's diverse gastronomic traditions. 'This Independence Day, we've put together a menu that celebrates the incredible diversity of India's food, from comforting family favourites to flavours that take you across our coasts and communities,' says Chef Paul Noronha, Executive Chef. 'Each dish is inspired by recipes and traditions we hold close to heart, brought to life with our own touch. It's the perfect way to gather with family and friends, share stories over great food, and savour the spirit of the day together.' Over in South Mumbai, Nksha is inviting diners to step into the charm of vintage Bombay. 'We anticipate strong footfall and an energetic atmosphere on Independence Day weekend, as people step out to celebrate with friends and family,' says Pranav Rungta, Co-founder and Director of Nksha Restaurant and Vice President of NRAI Mumbai. 'Our special menu blends authentic Indian flavours with contemporary techniques, catering to evolving tastes while staying true to our roots. In doing so, we also seek to revive the elegance and character of vintage Bombay, offering diners not just a meal, but an experience that reflects both tradition and innovation.' For those seeking bite-sized elegance, Gourmet Table is serving up a line-up of Gourmet Bites that look as good as they taste — think Edamame Truffle Mousse Filo Cups, Beetroot Scallion Cream Cheese Parcels, and Avocado Cherry Tomato Mini Bagels. 'Food is a language that transcends boundaries,' says Chef Harsh Shodhan, founder. 'On Independence Day, I wanted each bite to tell a story of unity — blending flavours, textures, and colours just as our country blends cultures, traditions, and dreams. ' At Pause Café, the focus is on slowing down to enjoy clean, plant-based food. Co-founder Rohit Dadlani shares, 'This Independence Day, we're partnering with Sober to craft refreshing non-alcoholic classic cocktails, along with our regular favourites, to make the day a little more special for everyone who celebrates it with us.' Meanwhile, Amelia is weaving seasonal inspiration into its Sunday brunch. 'We simply love making every meal feel special,' says Timanshu Mokal, co-founder. 'For Independence Day, we've added a few touches to make the day feel a little warmer, a little sweeter, and hopefully, a little more memorable for everyone who joins us.' And at Pondichéry Café in Sofitel Mumbai BKC, the lunch is a union of French elegance and Indian authenticity. 'Every celebration is an opportunity to blend our French art de vivre with India's rich traditions,' says Sidney D'Cunha, Director of Culinary – Food and Beverage. 'This Independence Day, our specially curated lunch showcases authentic regional flavours in an ambience that honours the spirit of freedom, unity, and hospitality our guests cherish. ' Adding a colourful twist to the celebrations, Mirah Hospitality is serving its Tiranga Thali. 'Food has the power to unite, and our Tiranga Thali is a reflection of India's unity in diversity,' says Aji Nair, CEO, Mirah Hospitality and Gourmet Solutions Pvt. Ltd. 'With each dish inspired by the colours of our flag, we aim to offer guests not just a meal, but an experience that honours our nation's heritage and festive spirit. ' Whether it's a lavish buffet, a delicate canapé, a plant-based cocktail hour, or a tricolour feast, Mumbai's chefs are proving that patriotism can be plated — and this Independence Day, it's delicious. "Get the latest news updates on Times of India, including reviews of the movie Coolie and War 2 ."


News18
12 minutes ago
- News18
Swades To Rang De Basanti: 7 Offbeat Patriotic Films To Watch With Family On Independence Day
Last Updated: From the classic Rang De Basanti to the modern Sardar Udham, celebrate this year's Independence Day with these unforgettable cinematic gems. As India gears up to celebrate its 79th Independence Day on August 15, it's the perfect occasion to revisit the stories that define the spirit of patriotism and freedom. While flag hoisting, parades, and cultural programs are traditional ways to mark the day, indulging in films that reflect the nation's journey and heroes with your family can be a moving experience. From the classic 'Rang De Basanti ' to the modern 'Sardar Udham,' the Indian cinema has given us a rich library of patriotic films. So this Independence Day, gather your loved ones and celebrate freedom, courage, and India through the magic of cinema. Can there be any better film to start the list of patriotic films? We think not. Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, Swades is a cult classic starring Shah Rukh Khan as Mohan Bhargav. He portrays an NRI NASA scientist who returns to India to reconnect with his Indian roots. Swades delves into themes of social responsibility, rural life, and identity, resonating deeply with audiences. AR Rahman's stirring soundtrack worked as a cherry on the cake. The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002) You just can't miss this Rajkumar Santoshi's directorial based on the life of Bhagat Singh. The Legend Of Bhagat Singh chronicles his invaluable contributions to win back India's independence from British rule. Headlined by Ajay Devgn, the film captures the fiery passion of young freedom fighters, questioning injustice and colonial rule with unmatched intensity. The movie also starred Sushant Singh, Raj Babbar, Farida Jalal, D Santosh, Akhilendra Mishra, and Amrita Rao in important roles. Rang De Basanti (2006) Another cult classic by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra deserves a watch. The film revisits the story of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev, and Chandrashekhar Azad. A group of carefree students, while acting in a documentary about India's freedom fighters, realise the need to stand up against corruption in contemporary society. Featuring Aamir Khan, Siddharth, Sharman Joshi, and Atul Kulkarni, this film undoubtedly touches the hearts of viewers and brings tears every time they watch the movie. Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019) Remember 'How's the josh?" The dialogue that became a national catchphrase is from this film based on the real-life 2016 surgical strike. Vicky Kaushal stars as Major Vihaan Shergill in this action-packed military drama. The film takes viewers through the remarkable events of the 2016 retaliation to the Uri attack, filling them with immense pride as they witness the unwavering determination of the armed forces. It also starred Yami Gautam, Kirti Kulhari, Mohit Raina, and Paresh Rawal in pivotal roles. Shershah (2021) This emotional war biopic traces the journey of Captain Vikram Batra, one of India's Kargil War heroes. Transforming completely from his door-next boy to his career-defining role that captures love, sacrifice, and courage, Sidharth Malhotra's role as a powerful, fearless army man is remarkable. It is a roller coaster ride of emotions, patriotism and love, keeping you hooked throughout. Sardar Udham (2021) Starring Vicky Kaushal, the biographical drama sheds light on the life of a lesser-known Indian revolutionary, Sardar Udham Singh. The film showed how the revolutionary avenged the death of thousands at the Jallianwala Bagh massacre by assassinating Michael O'Dwyer, Punjab's lieutenant governor who ordered the massacre. Vicky Kaushal's powerful performance and the film's artistic finesse make it a must-watch. Kesari (2019) How can we forget this epic war drama, Kesari? This gripping drama showcases how 21 Sikh soldiers fought valiantly against 10,000 Afghan invaders in 1897. Based on the legendary Battle of Saragarhi, the film featured Akshay Kumar leading the charge with emotion, grit, and fierce patriotism. As expected, this war drama is one of the fan favourite patriotic films for its epic battle scenes, nuanced performances and beautiful songs. Which one are you planning to watch? First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.