The National Film Awards are India’s most prestigious recognition for cinematic excellence. Since their inception in 1954, these awards have honored actors whose performances have shaped the landscape of Indian cinema across Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, Bengali, Kannada, Telugu, Marathi, and other film industries. A handful of legendary performers have repeatedly earned this recognition through extraordinary talent, consistency, and career-defining performances.
From Amitabh Bachchan’s record-breaking achievements to Kamal Haasan’s transformative acting and Mammootty’s remarkable versatility, these actors have set benchmarks that continue to inspire generations. This ranking highlights Indian actors with the most National Awards, including their award-winning films and major achievements.
Amitabh Bachchan
Amitabh Bachchan holds the record for the highest number of National Film Awards among Indian actors, with six National honors to his name. His journey spans more than five decades, making him one of the most decorated performers in Indian cinema history.
Amitabh Bachchan’s Major Awards and Honors
Saat Hindustani (1969)
Won the National Film Award for Best Newcomer, marking his successful debut in Indian cinema.
Agneepath (1990)
Received the National Film Award for Best Actor for his iconic role as Vijay Deenanath Chauhan.
Black (2005)
Won the National Film Award for Best Actor for delivering one of the most acclaimed performances of his career.
Paa (2009)
Earned the National Film Award for Best Actor for his outstanding portrayal of Auro.
Piku (2015)
Received the National Film Award for Best Actor for his remarkable performance as Bhaskor Banerjee.
Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2019)
Honored with India’s highest award in cinema for his exceptional contribution to the Indian film industry.
Career Highlights
- Most National Film Awards won by an Indian actor
- Record holder with four National Awards for Best Actor
- Successful career spanning over 50 years
- Acclaimed across multiple generations of audiences
- One of the most influential figures in Indian cinema
Kamal Haasan
Kamal Haasan is widely regarded as one of India’s finest actors. Known for his dedication to character transformation and artistic experimentation, he has earned 5 National Film Awards during his legendary career.
Kamal Haasan’s Major National Film Awards
Kalathur Kannamma (1960)
Won the National Film Award for Best Child Artist for his exceptional debut performance.
Moondram Pirai (1982)
Received the National Film Award for Best Actor for his outstanding portrayal of a school teacher.
Nayakan (1987)
Won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his iconic performance as Velu Naicker.
Thevar Magan (1992)
Received the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Tamil as the producer of the critically acclaimed film.
Indian (1996)
Earned the National Film Award for Best Actor for his powerful dual-role performance in the blockbuster film.
Achievements That Define His Legacy
- One of the most versatile actors in Indian cinema
- Worked successfully across Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Hindi, and Kannada films
- Pioneer of method acting in Indian cinema
- Known for physically demanding character transformations
- Multiple international film festival recognitions
Mammootty
Mammootty remains one of the greatest performers in Indian cinema. The Malayalam superstar has earned three National Awards for Best Actor through some of the most celebrated performances in Indian film history.
Mammootty’s Major National Film Awards
Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha and Mathilukal (1989)
Won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his exceptional performances in both critically acclaimed films.
Vidheyan and Ponthan Mada (1993)
Received the National Film Award for Best Actor for his powerful and versatile portrayals in both films.
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar (1999)
Earned the National Film Award for Best Actor for his remarkable portrayal of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar in the biographical drama.
Major Career Milestones
- More than four decades of acting excellence
- Acclaimed in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and English films
- Known for historical, biographical, and dramatic roles
- One of the most respected actors in Indian cinema
- Consistently recognized for performance-driven films
Ajay Devgn
Ajay Devgn has established himself as one of Bollywood’s most respected performers. His 4 National Award-winning performances showcase his ability to deliver emotionally powerful and critically acclaimed roles.
Ajay Devgn’s Major National Film Awards
Zakhm (1998) – Won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his powerful performance in the critically acclaimed drama.
The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)
Received the National Film Award for Best Actor for his outstanding portrayal of freedom fighter Bhagat Singh.
Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior (2020)
Earned the National Film Award for Best Actor for his remarkable portrayal of the Maratha warrior Tanhaji Malusare.
Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior (2020)
Received the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment as a co-producer, recognizing the film’s widespread acclaim and success.
What Makes His Award Record Exceptional?
- Success in both commercial and critically acclaimed cinema
- Strong performances in historical and dramatic films
- Consistent box-office appeal alongside critical recognition
- One of the few modern actors with three Best Actor National Awards
- Respected for his understated acting style
Mohanlal
Mohanlal’s influence on Indian cinema extends far beyond awards. His natural acting style and emotional depth have earned him 6 National Film Awards and widespread acclaim.
Mohanlal’s Major National Film Awards and Honors
Kireedam, Padamudra, and Dasharatham (1989)
Received the National Film Award Special Jury Mention for his exceptional performances across all three films.
Bharatham (1992)
Won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his outstanding portrayal in the acclaimed Malayalam drama.
Vanaprastham (2000)
Received the National Film Award for Best Actor for his remarkable performance in the critically acclaimed film.
Vanaprastham (2000)
Earned the National Film Award for Best Feature Film as a producer, recognizing the film’s artistic excellence.
Pulimurugan, Janatha Garage, and Munthirivallikal Thalirkkumbol (2017)
Received the National Film Award Special Jury Award for his outstanding contributions and performances across these films.
Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2025)
Honored with India’s highest award in cinema for his unparalleled and monumental contribution to Indian cinema.
Defining Features of His Career
- One of Malayalam cinema’s greatest actors
- Extraordinary range across drama, comedy, action, and family films
- Acclaimed for realistic and emotionally rich performances
- Consistent critical success over four decades
- Strong influence on modern acting standards
Mithun Chakraborty
Mithun Chakraborty combines mass popularity with exceptional critical recognition. He became one of the earliest actors to repeatedly receive National Award honors.
Mithun Chakraborty’s Major National Film Awards
Mrigayaa (1976)
Won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his powerful debut performance in the critically acclaimed drama.
Tahader Katha (1992)
Received the National Film Award for Best Actor for his outstanding portrayal in the Bengali film.
Swami Vivekananda (1998)
Earned the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for his acclaimed performance in the biographical drama.
Notable Achievements
- One of India’s most versatile performers
- Successful career across Bengali and Hindi cinema
- Acclaimed for both mainstream and parallel cinema
- National Award winner across multiple categories
- Influential figure in Indian film history
Naseeruddin Shah
Naseeruddin Shah is often regarded as one of the finest actors ever produced by Indian cinema. His commitment to meaningful storytelling has earned him multiple National Awards.
Naseeruddin Shah’s Major National Film Awards
Sparsh (1980)
Won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his sensitive and compelling portrayal in the critically acclaimed drama.
Paar (1984)
Received the National Film Award for Best Actor for his powerful performance in the acclaimed social drama.
Iqbal (2005)
Earned the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for his inspiring portrayal of a dedicated cricket coach.
Career Highlights
- Leading figure in India’s parallel cinema movement
- Acclaimed theatre actor
- Renowned for character-driven performances
- Known for artistic excellence over commercial formulas
- Influential mentor for younger actors
Om Puri
Om Puri’s career was built on authenticity, realism, and powerful storytelling. His performances remain benchmarks for actors seeking artistic excellence.
Om Puri’s Major National Film Awards
Arohan (1982)
Won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his powerful portrayal in the critically acclaimed social drama.
Ardh Satya (1983)
Received the National Film Award for Best Actor for his intense and memorable performance in the acclaimed crime drama.
Legacy of Excellence
- Icon of Indian parallel cinema
- Internationally recognized performer
- Known for intense dramatic portrayals
- Worked extensively in Indian and global productions
- Celebrated for socially relevant cinema
Dhanush
Dhanush has emerged as one of the most accomplished actors of modern Indian cinema. His willingness to take creative risks has resulted in remarkable critical acclaim.
Dhanush’s Major National Film Awards
Aadukalam (2011)
Won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his outstanding performance in the critically acclaimed Tamil drama.
Kaaka Muttai (2014)
Received the National Film Award for Best Children’s Film as the producer of the widely acclaimed Tamil film.
Visaranai (2016)
Earned the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Tamil as the producer of the critically acclaimed crime drama.
Asuran (2020)
Won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his powerful and transformative performance in the acclaimed Tamil film.
Key Achievements
- One of the youngest multiple National Award winners
- Successful actor, producer, lyricist, and singer
- Acclaimed across Tamil and Hindi cinema
- Recognized for intense character portrayals
- Major influence on contemporary Indian cinema
Sanjeev Kumar
Sanjeev Kumar remains one of the most respected performers in Hindi cinema. His ability to embody complex characters earned him immense critical recognition.
Sanjeev Kumar’s Major National Film Awards
Dastak (1970)
Won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his exceptional performance in the critically acclaimed drama.
Koshish (1972)
Received the National Film Award for Best Actor for his remarkable portrayal in the acclaimed film, showcasing his versatility and acting excellence.
Why He Remains Legendary
- Exceptional emotional depth
- Remarkable versatility
- Master of character-driven performances
- Respected by critics and audiences alike
- Lasting impact on Indian acting traditions
Nana Patekar
Nana Patekar’s intense screen presence and realistic acting style have earned him widespread acclaim and multiple National Awards.
Nana Patekar’s Major National Film Awards
Parinda (1989)
Won the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for his intense and memorable performance in the acclaimed crime drama.
Krantiveer (1994)
Received the National Film Award for Best Actor for his powerful portrayal in the socially relevant action drama.
Agnisakshi (1996)
Earned the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for his outstanding performance in the critically acclaimed thriller.
Career Highlights
- Known for powerful dialogue delivery
- Acclaimed for realistic performances
- Strong presence in socially relevant cinema
- Successful across multiple genres
- One of Bollywood’s most respected actors
