Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan recently won his first-ever National Award in the Best Actor category for his performance in Jawan, sharing the accolade with Vikrant Massey, who was recognised for 12th Fail. While fans celebrated the recognition, it also sparked political controversy.
Congress leader and Maharashtra MLA Bhai Jagtap questioned the timing of the award, alleging that the BJP was politicising it ahead of elections. “You did not give him a National Award in these eleven years. Why suddenly now? Is it because of Bihar elections or Maharashtra local body elections?” he asked. While congratulating Shah Rukh and calling him a cultural asset, Jagtap claimed the ruling party was using the award to further its political agenda.
On the other hand, former BJP MLA Raj Purohit defended the honour, stating that Shah Rukh was recognised purely on merit. Speaking to PTI Videos, he said, “Many people felt that the Congress overlooked Shah Rukh Khan all these years. The BJP never judged the actor on the basis of religion but recognised his talent and performances. Shah Rukh winning the award counters the accusation that the BJP practices caste or religious discrimination. The saffron party believes in unity, meritocracy and capability.”
Fans had mixed reactions to the win, with some expressing disappointment that Shah Rukh didn’t receive the award earlier for acclaimed films like Swades, Chak De! India, or My Name Is Khan, while others celebrated the long-overdue recognition.