Dhanush made history at the 72nd National Film Awards, clinching two honours — the National Award for Best Regional Film for his directorial debut 'Raayan' and a Special Mention (Best Actor) for his performance in 'Captain Miller'. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced the winners on Saturday at New Delhi, making Dhanush one of the rare Indian film personalities to receive National Awards in both acting and direction at the same ceremony.

Dhanush's Reaction

Taking to his X account shortly after the announcement, Dhanush expressed his emotions in a heartfelt note. 'I'm truly humbled and overwhelmed to have received the National Award for Best Regional Film for 'Raayan' and the National Award (Special Mention - Best Actor) for 'Captain Miller'. My heartfelt gratitude to the esteemed National Film Awards jury and the selection committee,' he wrote.

He also extended thanks to the media and his supporters. 'My sincere thanks to the press, media and the social media fraternity for their unwavering support throughout my career,' he added.

A Third Acting Award and a Directorial First

The 72nd National Film Awards mark Dhanush's third National Award as an actor, having previously been recognised for his performances in earlier films. However, the honour for 'Raayan' is his first National Award as a director — a milestone he described as deeply personal. 'A first is always unforgettable. Winning my very first National Award as a Director for Raayan is a blessing I will cherish forever,' he said.

Notably, he credited his fans as the driving force behind both achievements. 'None of this would have been possible without my fans — the pillars of my strength,' he wrote.

Why 'Captain Miller' Holds Special Significance

Dhanush described the Special Mention for 'Captain Miller' as particularly meaningful, calling it his finest performance to date. 'This recognition for Captain Miller is especially close to me because I have always believed it to be my finest performance to date. Receiving a Special Mention for a performance I hold so dearly makes this honour even more meaningful,' he said.

This comes amid a period of prolific output for the Tamil star, who has been simultaneously expanding his footprint as a filmmaker while maintaining a demanding acting schedule across Tamil and Hindi cinema.

About the 72nd National Film Awards

The 72nd National Film Awards, administered by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, recognise outstanding contributions to Indian cinema across languages and categories. The awards are considered the highest official recognition in Indian filmmaking. Dhanush's dual win underscores Tamil cinema's continued prominence on the national stage.

With both a directorial National Award and a third acting honour now to his name, all eyes will be on what Dhanush pursues next — both behind and in front of the camera.