Shah Rukh Khan’s National Award Sparks Debate Over Jury Decisions

Ziya Khan August 5, 2025Last Updated: August 5, 2025

The announcement of the 71st National Film Awards on August 1 was a moment of joy for Shah Rukh Khan fans, as the Bollywood icon won his first-ever National Award for Best Actor for his role in Jawan. This achievement marked a landmark in his illustrious 33-year career. However, the jury’s decisions have not gone unchallenged.

Veteran Malayalam actress Urvashi, who won Best Supporting Actress for Ullozhukku (shared with Gujarati actress Janki Bodiwala for Vash), expressed disappointment regarding the category placement of fellow actor Vijayaraghavan. She questioned the criteria used to differentiate between leading and supporting roles in the awards.

Urvashi Questions Jury’s Criteria

Speaking to Asianet News, Urvashi voiced strong concerns about the fairness of the jury’s decision. She argued that Vijayaraghavan’s performance in the Malayalam film Pookkaalam deserved recognition beyond the Best Supporting Actor category.

“Vijayaraghavan is such a great actor. What exactly did the jury consider to distinguish between Vijayaraghavan’s and Shah Rukh Khan’s performances? How did one become a supporting actor and the other the best actor? On what criteria?” she asked, highlighting the need for clarity.She stressed that both actors bring decades of experience and that awards should not be influenced by a film’s budget or scale. “We should raise such questions, as we too are taxpaying citizens,” Urvashi added, emphasizing the importance of transparency and fairness in the jury’s process.

Praising Vijayaraghavan’s Commitment

Urvashi also praised Vijayaraghavan’s dedication and transformation in Pookkaalam, where he portrayed a 100-year-old man. She revealed she was initially offered the role of his on-screen partner but declined due to the demanding makeup. “Even if you pay me crores, I wouldn’t do it. But he, at his age, endured all that and performed. That alone deserves at least a Special Mention,” she remarked.

At the ceremony, Shah Rukh Khan shared the Best Actor award with Vikrant Massey for 12th Fail, while Vijayaraghavan received the Best Supporting Actor award for his role in Pookkaalam, acting alongside veteran K. P. A. C. Leela.