MUMBAI– Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali has voiced his support for Shah Rukh Khan as debate continues over the superstar’s recent National Award win for Best Actor for his role in Jawan.
Speaking at an event in Mumbai, Ali called the honor a proud moment. “If the country has honored him, it’s obviously a big thing. I would like to congratulate Shah Rukh Khan and all the people who got this big award. Thank you,” he told IANS, extending warm wishes to all recipients.
Shah Rukh won his first National Award on August 1, but the decision sparked controversy when South actress Urvashi — who won Best Supporting Actress for Ullozhukku — indirectly questioned the jury’s choice. Without naming Shah Rukh, she reportedly asked what made Jawan deserving of the Best Actor title while veteran Malayalam actor Vijayaraghavan’s acclaimed performance was not even considered in the lead category. Her comments ignited online debate.
Some netizens expressed surprise that the honor came 33 years into Shah Rukh’s career, noting that celebrated performances in Devdas, Swades, Veer Zaara, and Chak De! India went unrecognized. The discussion has raised broader questions about the timing and criteria behind the jury’s decisions.
Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna also defended Shah Rukh, telling IANS, “People who are saying that Shah Rukh Khan should not have received the award for this film (Jawan) but for Swades — remember A. R. Rahman received the Oscar for Jai Ho and not for the many beautiful songs he created earlier. Shah Rukh has been working hard for the past 40 years — so what is wrong if he has received a National Award now?” (Source: IANS)
