Vikrant Massey’s National Award Win: A Dream Turned Reality for the 12th Fail Star

Vikrant Massey has officially won his first National Film Award for Best Actor for his powerful performance in 12th Fail. He shares this honour with Shah Rukh Khan, who won for Jawan, making the 71st National Awards a rare occasion where two very different actors, one a seasoned superstar, the other a slow-burn talent stands side by side.

In 12th Fail, Massey plays Manoj Kumar Sharma, a real-life UPSC aspirant who rises from poverty to become an IPS officer. The role demanded restraint, raw emotion and empathy. Massey brought all three, and then some. His performance wasn’t loud or theatrical but sincere, believable, and deeply moving. For an actor long praised for his subtle craft, this award feels like long-overdue recognition.

The Journey That Got Him Here

Before films, Massey tried his luck in television, with roles in shows like Balika Vadhu and Dharam Veer. He then moved into films and OTT platforms, consistently choosing grounded, character-driven roles. Performances in Mirzapur, A Death in the Gunj, Haseen Dillruba, and Criminal Justice helped him build credibility as an actor who can lead without needing frills.

The win is beyond personal high, it’s a turning point. Massey himself called it the dream of a 20-year-old finally fulfilled. It's also a moment of validation for the kind of cinema that tells real stories, and actors who do the heavy lifting quietly.

Other Big Winners at the 71st National Awards

• Best Actor (shared): Vikrant Massey (12th Fail) and Shah Rukh Khan (Jawan)

• Best Actress: Rani Mukerji for Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway

• Best Feature Film: 12th Fail

• Best Hindi Film: Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery

• Awards were also announced for Animal, The Kerala Story, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, and others across categories like editing, cinematography and regional cinema.

Why It Matters

Massey's is a payoff of years of quiet consistency. He represents a growing space in Indian cinema for actors who value authenticity over star power. And with 12th Fail being named Best Feature Film, it’s clear the story and the storyteller both hit the mark.