Filmmaker Karan Johar has penned an emotional tribute to his longtime friends and collaborators Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji, who both won their first-ever National Film Awards at the 71st edition announced on August 1.
Taking to Instagram, Karan congratulated the duo with individual shout-outs, reminiscing about their decades-long journey in the industry and his personal connection to their careers.
Reflecting on Shah Rukh Khan’s win for Best Actor for his performance in Jawan, Karan wrote, “I can’t help but beam with pride… redefining Indian cinema with every role you take on. Me and the entire world is rooting for you… there is no one like you, congratulations bhai.”
He fondly recalled their shared history, from their first collaboration in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai to this latest milestone, adding, “Like you say… picture abhi baaki hai mere dost!”
Praising Rani Mukerji—who won Best Actress for Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway—Karan hailed her as “the queen of every screen,” applauding her ability to move audiences with every performance.
“Very few can do what you do, and you’ve always done it best. We can’t wait to see what you do next,” he said, also extending congratulations to the film’s producers, Emmay Entertainment.
Karan also shared a nostalgic note about winning his own first National Award for Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, which starred both Shah Rukh and Rani. “If this is not full circle, what is?!” he wrote.
Meanwhile, Johar’s own film Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani won the National Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, and Best Choreography for the song Dhindhora Baje Re.
The emotional post marks a moment of celebration not just for the individual achievements, but for a trio of friends whose cinematic journey has come full circle.
