After more than three decades in the cinema world, Rani Mukerji has achieved her first National Award for Best Actress, a moment of immense joy for her family
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and supporters. This accolade was awarded for her remarkable role in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, where she portrayed a mother battling a foreign authority to regain custody of her children. Based on the true story of Sagarika Chakraborty, the film highlighted Rani’s emotional range and garnered her significant acclaim. Recently, Rani Mukerji's mother, Krishna, responded to her daughter's achievement, stating that she should have received the award for Black.
Rani Mukerji's mother comments on her National Award achievement
While this recognition signifies a major achievement, Rani’s mother, Krishna Mukherjee, feels it has come too late. In a conversation with the press at a Durga Puja pandal in Mumbai, she remarked, “I am delighted she received a National Award, but it was overdue. She ought to have been honored for Black. Nonetheless, I am incredibly proud of her today.”
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Chitrani Lahiri on Rani's role in Black
Chitrani Lahiri, the widow of the late music icon Bappi Lahiri, shared her thoughts, describing Rani’s portrayal in Black as “exceptional” and questioning why it wasn’t recognized at the time. Krishna also expressed how meaningful it was that Rani’s longtime co-star and dear friend, Shah Rukh Khan, also received his first National Award this year for Jawan. She stated, “Rani is like my daughter. We are very touched to learn that she received the National Award so late. She delivered an outstanding performance in Black. I can’t comprehend how people failed to see her talent back then. They should have honored her much earlier. After 30 years, she is finally being acknowledged.”
Although many still feel Rani was overlooked for her impactful role as Michelle McNally in Black (2005), her long-awaited recognition at the 71st National Film Awards in 2025 feels like a moment of closure.
Rani Mukerji's upcoming projects
With this long-overdue recognition finally achieved, Rani is preparing for her next major release, Mardaani 3, where she reprises her role as the determined cop Shivani Shivaji Roy. The film is scheduled to be released in theaters on February 27, 2026. Rani’s journey, characterized by perseverance and impactful performances, continues to motivate many.
