Rani Mukerji, one of Bollywood’s most versatile actors, recently reflected on her illustrious 30-year journey in films and her first National Award for Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway at the India Today Conclave 2025. From sharing memories of her late father to her journey of patience, persistence, and gratitude, Mukerji’s conversation with Rajdeep Sardesai offered fans an emotional and inspiring glimpse into her life.
A National Award After Three Decades
For Rani, winning a National Award has been a long-awaited milestone. Speaking at the Conclave session titled “Queen of Reinvention: National Award to Motherhood, Winning it All,” she said:
“The award means so much happiness for my fans, well-wishers, my friends, and family. I’ve been focused on my craft for decades, always striving not to disappoint my audiences. Winning this along with SRK, for the first time in our careers, makes it incredibly special.”
Mukerji’s words reflect her belief that success in films ultimately lies in the hands of the audience, and her focus has always been on hard work and excellence in her craft, not awards.
Heartbreak After Black
Rani did not shy away from discussing her earlier disappointments. She recalled the time she didn’t win a National Award for her groundbreaking performance in Black (2005).
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“I was 25 and had given my everything to that film. There was chatter that I would win, and when I didn’t, it was heartbreaking. My father was very disappointed, and so was Sanjay Leela Bhansali. But over time, I realized that destiny has its own timing. When it happens, it happens.”
This moment highlighted Rani’s resilience and her ability to trust the journey, even when the outcome is uncertain.
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Feeling Her Father’s Presence
Winning the award became even more emotional because of her late father. Rani shared: “The day I received the news, I was in the room where he had passed. I finished the pooja and told my mother about the National Award. She started howling because she too felt my father’s presence. It was as if he was there, making it happen.”
Faith, Patience, and Gratitude
Rani Mukerji’s philosophy is simple yet profound: work hard, stay patient, and remain grateful. “I’ve always believed in faith and patience. Whatever I get, I am thankful for it. Whatever I don’t, I am still grateful. Life has its own rhythm, and you have to trust it.”
Working with Legends
Rani also opened up about working alongside stalwarts like Amitabh Bachchan. She admitted that while Big B brings unmatched energy and discipline to every set, it is his son Abhishek Bachchan who sometimes needs a reminder to stay serious on set.
“I deeply admire what Big B brings to every scene. He is the epitome of dedication, and it’s inspiring to work with him,” she shared.
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30 Years of Reinvention
From her debut to becoming a celebrated icon of Bollywood, Rani Mukerji has redefined versatility and commitment in acting. Her journey reflects not just cinematic success but also the power of faith, patience, and gratitude, inspiring a whole generation of actors and fans alike.