Karan Johar Wins National Award for Best Director for ‘Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani’
Mumbai, August 2, 2025:
Celebrated filmmaker Karan Johar has achieved a career-defining milestone by winning the National Film Award for Best Director for his romantic drama “Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani.” This is the first time Karan Johar has received India’s most prestigious cinema honor for direction, adding a powerful new chapter to his illustrious journey in Bollywood.
The jury praised Johar for skillfully blending classic family drama with modern themes, delivering a film that resonated with audiences across generations. The award is seen as a moment of critical validation for Karan Johar, whose career has largely been defined by commercial successes and iconic storytelling.
Karan Johar’s tribute to love and identity
Released in 2023, Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani starred Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt and became one of the year’s biggest hits. The film follows the love story of two people from contrasting cultural backgrounds, exploring family expectations and the courage to embrace one’s identity. Critics widely described it as one of Karan Johar’s most mature works, balancing humor and heart with bold social commentary.
In response to winning the National Award, Karan shared an emotional statement on social media: “This film came straight from my heart. Winning a National Award is something I always dreamed of, but to achieve it for a film that celebrates love and family feels even more special. Thank you to the cast, crew, and especially the audience who made Rocky and Rani part of their own families.”
Industry applause for Karan Johar
The film fraternity erupted in celebration, with countless stars congratulating him. Alia Bhatt
called the award “a win for heartfelt cinema,” while Ranveer Singh praised Karan Johar for “telling a timeless love story that felt fresh and real.” Veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt hailed the recognition, noting that Karan Johar has “redefined what mainstream cinema can achieve.”
Fans joined the celebrations on social media, where hashtags like #KaranJoharWins and #RockyAurRaniKiPremKahani trended for hours. Many hailed the moment as long overdue recognition of Karan Johar’s evolving artistry.
A new peak in Karan Johar’s 25-year journey
Since debuting in 1998 with the blockbuster Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, he has shaped modern Hindi cinema through beloved films such as Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, My Name Is Khan, and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil. While his movies have earned numerous popular awards, this National Award is the first to formally recognize Karan Johar’s directorial vision at the highest national level.
Film critics highlighted that Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani reflects Karan Johar’s growth as a filmmaker, tackling social themes like patriarchy and cultural pride while retaining his signature charm and humor.
Why the award matters for Karan Johar
Beyond commercial success, the National Award acknowledges his commitment to evolving as a storyteller. The jury cited his ability to blend nostalgia with progressive ideas, describing the film as “a vibrant, emotional, and socially conscious celebration of love.”
In interviews after the announcement, Karan Johar said: “This award reminds me why I started making films — to connect, to question, and to entertain. I’m honored, humbled, and more inspired than ever to keep telling stories that matter.”
What lies ahead for Karan
Buoyed by the National Award win, he hinted at an upcoming project focused on modern Indian relationships, promising another blend of humor, conflict, and emotion. Industry insiders expect the project to start production later this year.
A legacy reaffirmed
For fans and fellow filmmakers alike, the National Award win is more than an individual accolade; it symbolizes his journey from creating glossy romances to making meaningful, resonant cinema. Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani will now be remembered not just as a blockbuster, but as the film that finally brought Karan Johar the nation’s highest filmmaking honor — a triumph that celebrates both his legacy and his constant reinvention.
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