Ahmedabad, India – The 70th Filmfare Awards, held on October 11, 2025, at the EKA Arena in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, was a night brimming with cinematic excellence, emotional wins, and unforgettable moments. Among the many highlights, a particularly heartwarming incident involving Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and debutante Nitanshi Goel captured the internet’s attention, reinforcing Khan’s enduring image as the ultimate gentleman of the industry.
A Moment of Grace on Stage
The event was graced by the presence of Bollywood’s biggest stars, with Shah Rukh Khan himself returning to host the prestigious ceremony after a 17-year hiatus, alongside Karan Johar and Maniesh Paul. As the awards progressed, young actress Nitanshi Goel was called to the stage to accept the award for Best Debut Female for her breakout performance in Kiran Rao’s acclaimed film, ‘Laapataa Ladies.’
As Goel, dressed in an elegant yellow gown with a long train, ascended the stage, her footwear momentarily caught on the fabric of her dress, causing her to stumble. In a swift, instinctive display of chivalry, Shah Rukh Khan, who was nearby, immediately extended his hand to steady her. Demonstrating remarkable composure and care, he not only prevented her from falling but also gracefully lifted the train of her gown, ensuring she could walk comfortably to receive her award from actor Akshay Kumar. The audience erupted in applause, moved by the superstar’s thoughtful and protective gesture. Videos of the incident quickly went viral across social media platforms, sparking a wave of admiration.
‘Laapataa Ladies’ Steals the Show
Nitanshi Goel’s moment of grace on stage was underscored by the monumental success of her debut film, ‘Laapataa Ladies.’ The movie emerged as the biggest winner of the night, clinching an impressive 13 Filmfare Awards. This haul equalled the record previously set by ‘Gully Boy’ in 2020 and marked a significant triumph for director Kiran Rao. Among its many accolades, ‘Laapataa Ladies’ secured awards for Best Film, Best Director (Kiran Rao), Best Music Album (Ram Sampath), Best Dialogue (Sneha Desai), and multiple acting honours, including Best Supporting Actor (Male) for Ravi Kishan and Best Supporting Actor (Female) for Chhaya Kadam. Pratibha Ranta also earned the Critics’ Award for Best Actress (Female) for her role in the film.
The film’s overwhelming success served as a testament to its compelling narrative and strong performances, with Nitanshi Goel’s win for Best Debut Female being a significant milestone in her burgeoning career. Her journey in Bollywood began at a young age, and ‘Laapataa Ladies’ has undeniably catapulted her into the spotlight, earning her widespread recognition and appreciation.
Shah Rukh Khan: The Enduring Gentleman
This act of chivalry from Shah Rukh Khan is not an isolated incident; it is a characteristic that has defined his public persona for decades. Dubbed the ‘King of Hearts,’ Khan has a well-documented history of displaying exceptional courtesy and respect, particularly towards his female colleagues and fans. Past instances include lending his coat to Alia Bhatt when she felt cold and assisting Sushmita Sen with her luggage. Social media users frequently refer to such gestures as ‘just SRK things,’ highlighting his consistent display of magnanimity and class.
His presence as a host at the 70th Filmfare Awards added an extra layer of star power to the event. The reunion of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol on stage, performing their iconic 90s hits, also created a surge of nostalgia and excitement, trending across entertainment news outlets and social media.
A Star’s Aspirations and Audience Reaction
For Nitanshi Goel, the experience was undoubtedly overwhelming and memorable. The 18-year-old actress, who has previously expressed admiration for Shah Rukh Khan, found herself being assisted by her idol during a pivotal moment in her career. In a prior interview, Goel had spoken about emulating Khan’s public speaking style and connect with audiences. This interaction, therefore, held a special significance for her. The videos of the incident quickly went viral, with many netizens drawing parallels to similar on-stage stumbles by Hollywood celebrities, but unequivocally praising Khan’s elegant and timely intervention.
The digital sphere buzzed with praise, with fans flooding social media with comments commending SRK’s gentlemanly conduct. The act resonated deeply, underscoring the importance of grace and support within the demanding world of entertainment. It was a moment that transcended mere award show proceedings, becoming a trending topic that celebrated kindness and respect.
Conclusion: More Than Just an Award Show
The 70th Filmfare Awards celebrated the diverse forms of Indian cinema, from gripping dramas and musical scores to the latest advancements in fashion and technology that grace the screen. Amidst the glamour and the high-stakes competition, the heartwarming moment shared between Shah Rukh Khan and Nitanshi Goel served as a powerful reminder of the human connections that form the bedrock of the entertainment industry. It was a display of true sportsmanship and a testament to a star’s innate ability to make others feel valued and secure, solidifying the event’s status as a significant highlight in the year’s cultural calendar, and proving that chivalry, indeed, is far from dead.
