Vikrant Massey has reacted after bagging his first National Award for his powerful portrayal of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma in Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s critically acclaimed film ‘12th Fail’. Announced on August 1 by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in New Delhi, the award recognises Massey’s deeply resonant performance in a role that struck a chord with audiences and critics alike.

In a statement following the announcement, Massey expressed his gratitude: “I want to thank the Honourable Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the NFDC, and all the esteemed jury members of the 71st National Film Awards for considering my performance worthy of this recognition. I also want to thank Shri Vidhu Vinod Chopra ji for giving me this opportunity.”

Calling it a dream come true, he added, “Today, if I may say so, a 20-year-old boy’s dream has come true. I am eternally grateful to the audiences for honouring my performances and for recommending this film with such love. It is a privilege to be sharing my first National Award with an icon like Shah Rukh Khan.” His words reflect both humility and the emotional weight of the moment.

Watch the trailer of ’12th Fail’ here:

In a heartfelt tribute, Massey dedicated his win to the underrepresented. He said, “Lastly, I dedicate this award to all the marginalised people in our society – those who are often looked through, and those who are fighting the socio-economic paradigm of our country every single day.” His statement echoed the core themes of ‘12th Fail’, which champions grit, perseverance, and hope.

‘12th Fail’ is currently available for streaming on JioCinema, allowing audiences to revisit Massey’s award-winning performance and the film’s stirring message of resilience and determination.

Up next, Massey will be seen in the biopic of spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

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