In what has now become one of the most delightful exchanges on Indian Twitter (or X, as it’s now called), Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan responded to Congress MP Shashi Tharoor’s congratulatory message in a way that left fans smiling and maybe Googling a few words.
The event? Shah Rukh Khan bagged his very first National Film Award for Best Actor after over three decades of enlisting the hearts of audiences on the big screen. The movie that gave him this award was 2023’s blockbuster Jawan, helmed by Atlee, in which SRK sported a double role combining emotional depth with larger-than-life action.
A Tharoor-Style Compliment Gets a Khan-Style Reply
Shashi Tharoor, who’s as famous for his polysyllabic vocabulary as he is for his political career, offered a surprisingly simple message of congratulations. “A National Treasure wins a National Award! Congratulations @iamsrk!” he wrote.
It wasn’t long before Shah Rukh Khan responded with a tweet that instantly went viral. Known for his sharp wit, Khan thanked the MP in a way only he could:
“Thank you for the simple praise, Mr. Tharoor… would not have understood something more magniloquent and sesquipedalian… ha ha.”
For those without a Tharoorian dictionary at hand:
• Magniloquent: Using high-flown or pompous language.
• Sesquipedalian: Characterized by long words; also used to describe someone who uses long words.
The internet exploded with laughter and admiration at the clever banter. Fans loved how Khan used the moment to engage with Tharoor in his own linguistic playground, showcasing both his humor and humility.
A Well-Hard-Earned Honor
Shah Rukh Khan’s National Award for Jawan is a landmark moment in his career. It has taken this one of India’s most beloved and successful actors so long, but it is his first National Award in a 33-year-long career spanning classics such as Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Swades, My Name is Khan, and Chak De! India.
In Jawan, Khan took the challenge of acting in a dual role: a vigilante father and his idealist son. The film, which spoke about corruption, social justice, and accountability, appealed to the masses as well as the critics. It not only set box office records but also spurred national debates, thanks to its captivating story and socially responsible message.
The film also featured powerhouse performances by Nayanthara and Vijay Sethupathi, along with a guest appearance by Deepika Padukone, who played the mother of Khan’s younger character. With Atlee at the steering wheel and a gripping story, Jawan was not just a film; it was a cinematic event.
A Heartfelt Thank You
After the National Film Awards were officially announced, Khan posted a video saying thank you. With his arm sling in place purportedly for an on-set injury on the shooting of his new film King, the actor spoke a heartfelt, tearful speech in front of a bookshelf, radiating humility and grace.
“Being honored with the National Award is a moment I will cherish for a lifetime,” he said. “Thank you to the jury, the chairman, the I&B Ministry, and everyone who believed I was worthy of this.”
He specifically acknowledged the filmmakers and collaborators who helped shape his 2023 journey:
“So, thank you, Raju sir, thank you, Saeed, and especially thanks to Atlee sir and his team for believing in me and giving me this opportunity in Jawan.”
A Reminder of Responsibility
Khan also shared a deeper reflection on what the award means to him. “It’s not just about achievement,” he said. “It’s a reminder that what I do matters. It tells me to keep going, keep working hard, keep creating, and keep serving cinema.”
He added, “In a world full of noise, to be truly heard is a blessing. And I promise to use this recognition not as a finish line but as fuel to continue striving, learning, and giving life.”
For Khan, acting has never been just a profession. “It’s a responsibility,” he declared.
What’s Next for the Superstar?
In spite of his injury, Shah Rukh Khan is busier than ever. He’s in the middle of shooting King, the film debut of his daughter Suhana Khan. It also stars Deepika Padukone and Abhishek Bachchan, so it’s one of the most eagerly awaited upcoming films.
Although details about the plot are scarce, it is said that King will be an adrenaline-fueled action drama that sees Khan delivering another intense, complex character. Based on Jawan, King is sure to be a visual extravaganza.
While the actor recuperates and prepares for yet another episode in his illustrious career, fans are rejoicing not only at his award but also at his abiding spirit. And if this recent exchange with Shashi Tharoor is anything to go by, Shah Rukh Khan’s status as the king of charisma both on and off screen is by no means over.