Shah Rukh Khan holds Rani Mukerji’s saree pallu at 71st National Film Awards, fans say 'the king for a reason'

Shah Rukh Khan holds Rani Mukerji’s saree pallu at 71st National Film Awards, fans say 'the king for a reason'

The 71st National Film Awards in Delhi turned into an evening of milestones, nostalgia, and heartwarming moments, with Bollywood icons Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji stealing the spotlight. Both stars were honoured with their first-ever National Awards — Shah Rukh for Best Actor for his blockbuster performance in Jawan, and Rani for Best Actress for her moving role in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway.

While the evening was already historic, what melted hearts across the internet was a small but significant gesture. As Rani searched for her seat, Shah Rukh gently held the pallu of her saree, ensuring it didn’t get caught. The moment was captured on camera and instantly went viral, with fans flooding social media to celebrate SRK’s gentlemanly act.

Videos from the ceremony showed Rani in a striking brown saree, radiating elegance, while Shah Rukh looked dapper in a black bandhgala suit, complete with a silver brooch and sunglasses. Fans couldn’t stop gushing, calling him “pure gentleman” and “the king for a reason.” One fan nostalgically remarked that the moment brought back memories of their beloved on-screen pairings in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna. Another wrote, “Ek hi toh dil hai, kitna bar jeetoge SRK babu?”

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Social media was filled with admiration, with many noting how rare it is for two superstars to remain so grounded even while receiving the highest honours of their careers. Vikrant Massey also bagged the Best Actor award for 12th Fail at the same ceremony, while Malayalam legend Mohanlal was honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
For Shah Rukh and Rani, the evening was more than just about awards. Their bond — nurtured over decades of cinematic collaborations in films like Chalte Chalte, Paheli, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, and Veer Zaara — continues to resonate with audiences. Their chemistry, both on-screen and off, has once again proven timeless.

On a night that celebrated Indian cinema’s finest, one simple gesture from Shah Rukh Khan reminded everyone why he remains Bollywood’s undisputed “King of Hearts.”