Shah Rukh Khan Responds to Shashi Tharoor's Congratulatory Note With Trademark Wit After National Award Win

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan recently added a new milestone to his illustrious career by winning the National Film Award for Best Actor in a Hindi Film for his role in Jawan. The 59-year-old actor’s performance in the 2023 action drama was widely celebrated, and among those who extended their congratulations was politician and author Shashi Tharoor.

Known for his eloquence and vocabulary-rich expressions, Tharoor surprised many with a refreshingly simple congratulatory message. Khan, true to his witty persona, couldn’t resist playfully acknowledging the gesture.

“Thank u for the simple praise Mr Tharoor… would not have understood something more magniloquent and sesquipedalian… ha ha,” the actor tweeted, poking fun at Tharoor’s famously grandiloquent language.

The exchange quickly went viral on social media, with fans applauding Khan’s humour and charm. One fan commented, “Only you can pull this off with such charm, Shah Rukh Sir - wit, humility, and elegance in one line.” Another quipped, “Brilliantly played, Shah Rukh! When the Badshah drops magniloquent and sesquipedalian in one breath, even dictionaries blush. You’ve just turned Tharoorian into Khan-speak! And the nation’s loving every syllable.”

Others joined in the praise, noting how Khan’s sharp sense of humour continues to captivate audiences online. “Replied back in Shashi Tharoor style English, the OG witty SRK tweets are back,” said a user. Another added, “Trust SRK to turn a dictionary into a comedy set! Even his wit has a fanbase now.”

Jawan, directed by Atlee, saw Khan in a double role—portraying Vikram Rathore, a former army officer, and his son Azad, a jailor on a mission to uproot corruption. The film became one of the biggest commercial successes of 2023 and further cemented Khan’s legacy as a versatile and bankable star.

At the 71st National Film Awards, Shah Rukh Khan shared the Best Actor honour with Vikrant Massey, who was recognised for his compelling portrayal in 12th Fail, directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra. The award marks Shah Rukh’s first National Award in his 33-year film career—an achievement fans and critics alike have deemed long overdue.