Former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Raj Purohit ignited controversy by stating that prior Congress governments had failed to honor Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan with awards, asserting that his party assesses the actor solely based on merit. Purohit, speaking to PTI Videos, emphasized that the BJP has never evaluated Khan on religious grounds, focusing instead on his talent and performances.
He further noted that the BJP champions principles of unity, meritocracy, and capability. His remarks followed the recent accolade given to Khan, who received the National Award for Best Actor for his role in ‘Jawan’, sharing the honor with Vikrant Massey, the star of ’12th Fail’.
In response, the Opposition accused the government of seeking to honor Khan with a national award for the first time in eleven years due to the impending assembly elections in Bihar. Bhai Jagtap, a Congress leader and Member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, criticized the ruling BJP for allegedly politicizing national awards for electoral advantage.
“You did not give him a national award in these eleven years. Why suddenly now? Is it because of Bihar elections or Maharashtra local body elections?” Jagtap questioned in remarks to PTI Videos. He characterized Khan as a cultural asset to the country, raising concerns over the timing and political implications of the award.
Jagtap accused the BJP of previously polarizing society and suppressing the Muslim community, only to remember Khan in light of the upcoming Bihar assembly elections. “The only motive behind honoring Shah Rukh Khan is elections,” he asserted.
On Tuesday, President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Film Award for Best Actor to Khan at a ceremony in Vigyan Bhavan, Delhi. Dressed in a black suit, Khan appeared particularly pleased during the 71st National Film Awards Ceremony.
Following the announcement of the National Film Award winners in August, Khan took to social media to express his gratitude in an emotional video directed at his fans, team, family, and colleagues. “Thank you for honoring me with the National Award. Thanks to the jury, the I&B ministry. Iss samman ke liye Bharat Sarkar ka dhanyawaad. Overwhelmed with the love showered upon me. Half a hug to everyone today…” he stated, emphasizing his gratitude for the recognition.
In a follow-up message, Khan expressed, “Needless to say, I am overwhelmed with gratitude, pride, and humility. To be honored with the National Award is a moment that I will cherish for a lifetime. Thank you so much to the jury, the chairman, and to the I&B Ministry, and to everyone who thought I was worthy of this honor.”
