The real meaning of Shah Rukh Khan's National Award-winning speech

India Today

02-08-2025

Shah Rukh Khan received his first National Award in 33 years of acting. It was his performance in a full-blown commercial film, 'Jawan', in which he played a dual role, that earned him the National award for Best Actor. He quite humbly thanked the Indian government, his team, his directors, his family and his unparalleled fandom for the biggest honour. Wearing a cast on his right arm, SRK appeared casually in a video on social media, and gave a heartfelt speech.advertisementHe shared what the National Award meant to him and just how it wouldn't have been possible without the blessings and love of so many people. But there was something else - something more than what met the eye.SRK was not just thanking the jury or the recognition, he was making a statement. Trust him to layer every word in that video with meaning far deeper than it may seem.
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