Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt are joyfully marking their film Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’s win at the 2023 National Film Awards as Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. The award, announced this year, honors the film’s widespread popularity and emotional resonance with audiences across India.
Emotional Reactions from Lead Stars and Director
Ranveer Singh shared a moving message reflecting the film’s deeper impact on viewers. He highlighted how Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani has become more than just entertainment, describing it as a source of comfort and emotional relief for many.
“The real win for RRKPK is how it has grown to become people’s go-to comfort film. They rewatch it again and again, as a form of emotional regulation. Ek aisi film jo dil ka bojh halka kar deti hai. That’s wholesome entertainment indeed… Feeling proud, feeling blessed, feeling grateful,”
Ranveer wrote, expressing his heartfelt gratitude.
Alia Bhatt, who portrayed the outspoken and intelligent Bengali journalist Rani, also took to social media to celebrate their success. She expressed her excitement with a simple yet warm message:
“What a moment… Love to the incredible team that made this film so magical,”
accompanied by a heart emoji, capturing the shared joy of the cast, crew, and fans.
Karan Johar, the film’s director and a prominent figure in Bollywood, called this achievement both a personal and professional milestone in his career, underlining the film’s significance within his body of work.
A Story of Cultural Contrast and Connection
Released in July 2023, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani quickly won hearts with its unique storyline of a couple from different cultural backgrounds navigating the challenges of mixed family traditions. The plot centers on Rocky Randhawa, a loud yet vulnerable Punjabi man played by Ranveer Singh, and Rani, his strong-willed Bengali partner portrayed by Alia Bhatt. Before their wedding, they swap families for three months, triggering a series of comedic moments, emotional growth, and life lessons.

The film’s ensemble cast includes industry veterans like Dharmendra, Jaya Bachchan, Shabana Azmi, Tota Roy Chowdhury, and Churni Ganguly, whose performances added depth and authenticity to the cultural tapestry portrayed on screen.
Why This Award Matters for Bollywood
Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’s recognition as the Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment highlights its success in blending traditional Bollywood elements—romance, humor, family drama—with progressive themes. Its music, strong performances, and storytelling have established the movie as a modern classic. For many viewers, the character of Rocky Randhawa represents a refreshing take on masculinity, combining strength with sensitivity.
This award not only honors the film’s artistic achievements but also reinforces the importance of relatable and meaningful cinema that can entertain while addressing social themes with heart. Fans of Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh now eagerly anticipate future projects that continue to elevate mainstream Indian cinema.