It is indeed a day for Akshay Kumar and his family, friends and fans to rejoice, as the actor won his first National Award in the 'Best Actor' category, for 'Rustom.'
Thanking everyone for his big win, the 'Khiladi' actor said, 'der aaye par durust aaye,' which means, 'better late than never.'
He took to Twitter to share a video message for all and wrote alongside, "#NationalFilmAwards : Best Actor for Rustom,countless emotions,very hard to express my gratitude right now but still tried,a big THANK YOU."
The 'Airlift' actor said in the one-minute video, "I would like to dedicate this award to the blessings of my parents and love of my family, especially to my lovely wife who always jokes, 'Good that you have stopped going to Award events. You don't get anything.' However, it's better late than never."
Continuing, "Thank you is a very small word to say. But I don't know how else to express what I am feeling right now. I am truly humbled by this honour. I would like to thank the National Award jury and all my fans, from the core of my heart, for believing in my talent."
"Rustom was a very special role to play. Wearing the uniform of Indian Navy personnel is an achievement by itself, be it for a film. Now this award has made it yet more special," he said.
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Concluding his statement, Akshay, who is presently shooting with Sonam Kapoor for R. Balki's upcoming film 'Padman,' said, "As I speak this, National Award winning actress Sonam Kapoor, who is shooting with me, is here now. So, it's a double celebration for us today."
On the same note, Sonam Kapoor's 'Neerja' won the National Award in the 'Best Hindi Feature Film' category.
Wife Twinkle Khanna also expressed her overwhelming happiness and tweeted, "I don't know if I am crying or laughing-emotions all over the place-So proud of you @akshaykumar you smart, humble, amazing creature!."
Akshay's friend's from the industry too showered their wished on the actor.
His 'Rustom' costar Ileana D'Cruz wrote, "Russi continuing to win hearts nationwide and his Cynthia couldn't be prouder! Congratulations @akshaykumar!!!!!"
"Congratulations to my bro @akshaykumar for winning the national award for best actor for Rustom ! more power to you #NationalAward," tweeted his 'Brothers' co-star Sidharth Malhotra.
"Congratulations to @akshaykumar for winning #NationalAward for #BestActor. What an inspirational career graph & reinvention of an actor.:)" wrote Anupam Kher.
"Congrats @akshaykumar best actor for rustom..one more feather in an overcrowded cap..luv u sundi #NationalFilmAwards," tweeted Sajid Khan.