Shah Rukh Khan & Rani’s first National awards night ends with a viral dinner moment with Karan Johar

A heartwarming photograph from Rashtrapati Bhavan has taken over social media, showing three of Bollywood’s biggest names unwinding after a historic night. Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji and Karan Johar were captured sharing an intimate dinner soon after the 71st National Film Awards ceremony in New Delhi on September 23. The snapshot, bathed in a soft reddish glow, shows the trio seated at a “RESERVED” table adorned with a floral centerpiece, surrounded by guests.

Shah Rukh, in a classic black outfit and glasses, leans in for a quiet chat while Rani, draped in an elegant saree, listens with a smile. Across from them, Karan Johar looks every bit the proud filmmaker. The picture radiates the warmth of old friends celebrating a night of triumph.

A Night of Firsts for Bollywood Icons

The evening marked a career milestone for both Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji, who each received their first National Film Awards. Shah Rukh was named Best Actor for his powerhouse performance in Jawan, a high-voltage entertainer directed by Atlee that boldly tackled issues like unemployment and farmers’ struggles. Rani earned Best Actress for her deeply moving role in Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway, a performance that captured the grit and vulnerability of a mother fighting for her child. Their wins were greeted with thunderous applause, and the viral dinner photo now feels like the perfect afterparty moment captured on camera.

Other Big Winners of the Evening

Karan Johar had his own reason to beam with pride, picking up the award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment for Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. The film’s chartbuster Dhindhora Baaje also brought home the Best Choreography award for Vaibhavi Merchant. Singer Shilpa Rao was honoured as Best Female Playback Singer for the Jawan hit Chaleya. Among other highlights, Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s 12th Fail was crowned Best Film, while Sudipto Sen won Best Director for The Kerala Story.

The 71st National Film Awards turned into an unforgettable night for the industry, but it’s the candid photo of SRK, Rani and KJo at their celebratory dinner that has truly captured the spirit of the evening.