Vikrant Massey Tipped to Win National Award for 12th Fail; Rani Mukerji Among Top Contenders for Best Actress

Mumbai: With the National Film Awards around the corner, speculation is rife that actor Vikrant Massey is set to be honoured with the Best Actor award for his critically acclaimed performance in 12th Fail. The buzz has been confirmed by film industry insiders, as reported by senior journalist Subhash K Jha.

Sources close to the selection process revealed that Massey’s portrayal in the Vidhu Vinod Chopra directorial has made a lasting impression on the jury. “Vikrant Massey’s performance in 12th Fail is getting him the National Award. It is final,” a source reportedly stated.

In the Best Actress category, Rani Mukerji is said to be a leading contender for her role in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway. The emotional drama, inspired by a real-life custody battle, has received widespread appreciation. Alongside Mukerji, two actresses from South India are also reportedly in the running.

Reacting to the growing recognition, Massey had earlier spoken about his long-held aspiration to win a National Award. “I hope it does. And I’m sorry, without cost of sounding pompous, and with utmost humility. I hope it does,” he told News18 Showsha. “I’ve always aspired for one. I prayed for it when I was a kid wanting to be an actor. Being presented an award by the President of India — that’s the ultimate dream.”

Massey has gained widespread recognition for his nuanced performances in recent years, and 12th Fail has been hailed as one of his finest. If confirmed, the award would mark a major milestone in his acting career.

On the work front, Massey recently starred in Aankhon Ki Gustaakiyan, opposite debutant Shanaya Kapoor. He is currently filming White, in which he plays the spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

Rani Mukerji, meanwhile, is set to return in Mardaani 3 and is also reportedly part of Shah Rukh Khan’s upcoming project King. Her possible win would be another feather in the cap of a veteran actress who continues to deliver powerful performances.

The official announcement of the National Film Awards is awaited, but anticipation is already building in the film industry over what could be a defining moment for both Massey and Mukerji.