By - Amit kumaR Agarwal
National Awards for films announced yesterday, set the tongues wagging! Not as much for the winners that won awards in various categories, but Shahrukh Khan tying with Vikrant Massey, for the Best Actor Award.
Did Sharukh really deserve it for Jawan?
Frankly, Shahrukh has given some sterling performances in his career. Post-2000 his performances in Kal Ho Na Ho and Chak De India were outstanding. If we see from pure commercial angle, he was great in Om Shanti Om and Chennai Express; but getting an award for Jawan is something not even his most-balanced fans anticipated. Many film-lovers and section of the industry, both Hindi and south, still can't digest it.
Why - because it was plain average performance at the best. While in the younger role Shahrukh was evidently struggling; in the 'bbuddah' role as 'jawan' he was good, but then he had done number of roles, where he was great! His best acts till date are Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jaayenge, Kal Ho Na Ho and Chak De India - a national award for these - even his harshest critics aver, would have been good; but Jawan?
Of course, many rate his act in Swades and My Name Is Khan as great, but it was over-acting to be honest and hence the films flopped.
In 2023, there were many sterling performances, most notable being the spectacular performance by Ranbir Kapoor in Animal. The layered performance, where Ranbir had all the shades, is rated way above than Shahrukh in Jawan.
For that matter, even, Ranveer Singh was great in Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani. His dance in Dhindhora Baje Re, alone, made him worthy of the award!
Did the awards-committee at National Awards committed a folly?
There will be too many debates on it - but the fact is Shahrukh Khan had performed much better in many of his roles in films other than Jawan.
In the end, though, a win is a win - so here's a big cheer to Shahrukh Khan and Vikrant Massey and all the winners of the National Awards.