Vikrant Massey’s moment at the 71st National Film Awards was surreal, yet fleeting—just 20 seconds with President Droupadi Murmu. As he approached the stage, Massey’s mind was focused on following protocol and capturing a good photograph to hang at home. The actor was honoured for his performance in Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s 12th Fail, which also won the Best Feature Film award.

For Massey, 38, the recognition is still sinking in. “It will take a couple of days to fully process everything,” he told PTI. “But it’s an incredible feeling, not just for me, but for my family and well-wishers as well.”

Sharing the stage with him were some of Indian cinema’s biggest stars: Shah Rukh Khan, who won for Jawan; Rani Mukerji, honoured as Best Actress for Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway; and Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, recipient of the coveted Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023. Massey described the experience as inspiring. “To be seated alongside legends like Shah Rukh sir, Rani ma’am, and Mohanlal sir—people who continue to inspire generations—is humbling. Seeing their childlike excitement and dedication to their craft even after decades in the industry is truly motivating.”

Massey revealed that both Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji praised his performance in 12th Fail, which is based on Anurag Pathak’s bestselling book chronicling IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma and IRS officer Shraddha Joshi’s journey. “Rani ma’am even sent me a congratulatory message when the film released. She has been incredibly generous and supportive of my work,” Massey shared.

Reflecting on the film, Massey said, “We wanted to tell an underdog story that resonates with the Indian spirit—about resilience, perseverance, and striving to better ourselves every day. Awards aren’t something you plan for; art can’t be created with that intent.”

Massey, who began his career on television with shows like Dharam Veer and Balika Vadhu, is known for his quiet intensity and sensitivity. He transitioned to films with Vikramaditya Motwane’s Lootera and has delivered acclaimed performances in A Death in the Gunj, Dil Dhadakne Do, Lipstick Under My Burkha, Chhapaak, Mirzapur, Sector 36, and Cargo.

On winning the National Award, Massey said it adds a sense of responsibility rather than pressure. “My process remains the same. I aim to tell meaningful stories, inspire people, and be a voice for the voiceless. This recognition strengthens my commitment, but my purpose remains unchanged.”