Deepshikha Maan, Jadetimes Staff
D. Maan is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia
Shah Rukh Khan Expresses Gratitude After Winning Best Actor Award: 'It's Good to Be Back'
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan shared his excitement with fans after winning the Best Actor award at the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards, saying, "It's good to be back." Khan was referring to his return to the big screen in 2023, following a four-year hiatus from acting.
During the star-studded event in Abu Dhabi, Khan expressed his appreciation for the love he received from audiences. "I think I have a little happiness from the audience this year because I worked again after a long time," he said. The actor won the award for his performance in the action-packed thriller *Jawan* and also co-hosted the event in the UAE’s capital, home to a large Indian community.
The night was filled with tributes to Khan, with fireworks marking his arrival on stage. Khan, who has remained a beloved figure in Indian cinema for over three decades, said, "I love awards, I'm greedy about awards. I just want to tell you it's good to be back."
Khan's 2023 return marked a significant milestone for Bollywood, as his roles in *Jawan* and the spy film *Pathaan* became some of the year's biggest hits. These roles showcased a new side of the 58-year-old actor, who is best known for his romantic hero persona.
Khan’s comeback followed challenging personal and professional setbacks, including his son Aryan Khan’s wrongful arrest on drug possession charges, which were later dropped, and several underperforming films. However, his enduring charm and wit have ensured his popularity remains undiminished. Widely referred to as "King Khan" or the "King of Bollywood," he is regarded as one of India’s most influential cultural icons, with millions of fans worldwide.
The IIFA Awards, hosted for the third time in Abu Dhabi, also celebrated other Bollywood stars such as Rani Mukerji, who won Best Actress for *Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway*, and Anil Kapoor, who took home the Best Supporting Actor award for *Animal*. Meanwhile, the film *Animal* won Best Picture, and Vidhu Vinod Chopra earned Best Director for *12th Fail*.
While Bollywood has faced challenges in the post-pandemic era, including a slow recovery in box office returns, Shah Rukh Khan's return has been a bright spot, making 2023 a standout year for the Indian film industry.
