Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s acclaimed film 12th Fail emerged as one of the biggest winners at the 71st National Film Awards 2025, bagging two top honours. The awards ceremony, held in New Delhi, saw Chopra receive the Best Feature Film award from President Droupadi Murmu. In his reaction to the recognition, Chopra dedicated the film’s success to Manoj Sharma, whose inspiring life story forms the heart of the narrative. “I believe officers like Manoj Sharma are the reason many people win National Awards. There should be more officers like him,” Chopra told ANI.

Adapted from Anurag Pathak’s book, 12th Fail stars Vikrant Massey in the lead as Manoj Sharma, with Medha Shankr portraying Shraddha Joshi, a fellow UPSC aspirant and his companion. The film, which chronicles Sharma’s struggles, failures, and eventual triumph, resonated deeply with audiences across the country. Released on October 27, 2023, the film turned into a surprise box-office hit, celebrated for its authenticity and emotional depth.

The victory carried special significance for Chopra’s family as well. His wife, Anupama Chopra, marked the occasion with a heartfelt Instagram post. Sharing pictures of her husband meeting BJP veteran L.K. Advani, she recalled a poignant memory: “In 1977 when VVC won his first National Award for his FTII diploma film Murder at Monkey Hill, Shri L.K. Advani, then the IB Minister, presented it to him. Today, after winning his 6th and 7th National Awards for 12th Fail, we first went to seek his blessings. It was a very emotional moment. What a journey!”

Alongside Massey and Shankr, the film also features Anant Joshi, Anshumaan Pushkar, and Priyanshu Chatterjee. The screenplay was co-written by Vidhu Vinod Chopra and Jaskunwar Kohli. With its powerful message of resilience and hope, 12th Fail has not only won accolades but has also cemented its place as one of the most inspiring films of recent years.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.