Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna has spoken out in support of Shah Rukh Khan after criticism emerged over the actor receiving his first National Film Award. Khan was recently honoured for his performance in Jawan, a milestone many fans and industry members celebrated after his 33-year career in Hindi cinema.

However, the decision has not been without controversy. Actress Urvashi, who won Best Supporting Actress for her role in Ullozhukku, publicly questioned the jury’s criteria and raised concerns about fairness, particularly in regard to South Indian cinema being underrepresented.

In response, Khanna addressed the issue during a conversation with IANS, cautioning against politicising the awards. “To suggest that someone from the South should have won instead is also a political statement,” he said. Drawing parallels, he reminded critics that “A R Rahman received the Oscar for ‘Jai Ho,’ not for the many other beautiful compositions he created before.”

Khanna also emphasised Shah Rukh Khan’s long-standing contribution to the film industry. “He’s been working hard for the past 40 years — so what’s wrong if he finally gets a National Award?” he added.

Following the announcement, Khan shared a personal video message expressing gratitude for the recognition. Reflecting on the award, he said, “A National Award is not just about achievement. It’s a reminder that what I do matters… to be heard — truly heard — is a blessing.”

He further described the honour not as a conclusion, but a motivation to “keep going, keep working hard, keep creating.” Khan called acting “a responsibility to show the truth on screen.”