Karan Johar won the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment for his directorial Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023). A day after the grand ceremony, the filmmaker
took to his social media to thank everyone who has been part of his journey and penned a long note.
Karan Johar, while talking on Instagram, shared a reel which is a video compilation of his day winning the National Award and some BTS from the shooting of Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. While sharing the video, he wrote, “Third time on the stage, 4th time for @dharmamovies to win the prestigious National Film Award—and the excitement + nerves never cease!!! I have gushed enough about how special this is for me… to win the same ‘Best Popular Film to provide wholesome entertainment’ that I did for my first film. I just want to take this time to thank everyone in my life who never let go of their belief in me. To provide me so much love in my wholesome life that I can pour the same into my films. And I guess it shows!!!”
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He further continued and added, “To the entire team of RRKPK—this is truly for you! From the entire cast and crew to all the teams who made this happen. To my friends, who stood with me like a pillar of strength and unending humour during the process of this film… To my mom & my kids… everything I do is to make you proud. I love you! ❤️ And finally—to the audiences! Thank you!!! No matter what, the Friday of a film release is always stressful, but I have been fortunate enough to always receive your love through the years…. it means the world and more!”
The reel also has a voice-over by Karan Johar, where he said, “I am so blessed to do what I do. Movie making is all I know and content creation is all I want to do.”
A Full-Circle Moment in Johar’s Career
This win was particularly significant for Karan Johar, marking his third consecutive National Award and fourth overall. He recalled how his debut film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai was once nominated in the same category, calling this honour a full-circle moment.
Speaking to Doordarshan on the red carpet, Johar said, “Whenever we get a National Award, I feel like I have done something right to win over hearts, the audience, the jury, and to reach this stage. A lot of respect and gratitude to the jury.”
