National Film Awards 2025 winners news lit up social media as India applauded cinematic excellence. From the first announcement it was clear that National Film Awards 2025 winners would include beloved legends and rising talents alike. The focus keyphrase appears right away to guide readers.
The awards recognised films certified in 2023. The full list of winners was unveiled in New Delhi on August 1, creating buzz across the industry.
Major acting honours delivered
Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey shared the Best Actor title for performances in Jawan and 12th Fail. For SRK, it marked his first-ever National Award after a 33-year journey. Rani Mukerji won Best Actress for Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway. That double recognition underlined both legacy and powerful new performances.
Feature film distinctions and regional impact
The Best Feature Film went to 12th Fail, reinforcing its emotional and social resonance. Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery earned the Best Hindi Film award. Marathi classic Shyamchi Aai also received recognition again, echoing its original 1953 win. These selections highlighted diversity in language and storytelling.
Direction, visuals and female narrative strength
The Kerala Story won two awards: Best Direction and Best Cinematography. Jury chair Ashutosh Gowariker praised the film’s treatment of a difficult subject. Meanwhile Tamil cinema recorded strong wins: Parking claimed Best Tamil Film and key acting honours in supporting roles. Women‑led themes like those in Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway stood out prominently.
Tribute to both newcomers and veterans
Films such as Animal, Pookalam, and Vaathi won across categories. Supporting shields went to actors like Vijayaraghavan and Janki Bodiwala. Children’s films like Naal 2 topped the Best Child Artist category. Technical awards also reflected new voices and established crafts.
Many stories behind the awards
This awards edition emphasised socially inspiring narratives and regional diversity. The jury balanced legacy performers like SRK and Rani Mukerji with newcomers from Marathi and Malayalam cinemas. The result was a mosaic of genres, languages and voices.
Ceremony and cultural significance
The event followed tradition: winners were announced formally, then felicitated later at Vigyan Bhavan by union ministers. National Film Development Corporation administered the process. Press updates streamed live, and public reactions echoed the significance of these wins for Indian art and media.
Why the National Film Awards 2025 winners matter
This set of honourees shows cinema as a driver of social themes, empathy and artistic diversity. Fans saw a legend like SRK finally earn his due. Audiences embraced regional storytelling and new social dramas. As social critics noted, the winners list reinforced cinema’s role in reflecting India’s evolving social fabric.