At the 71st National Film Awards, the spotlight turned towards one of Bollywood’s most beloved stars. Rani Mukerji, draped in a graceful saree, walked away with her very first National Award , a long-awaited recognition for a career that has spanned nearly thirty years.
She won the honour for her role in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, a performance that reminded audiences why she has always been considered one of the finest actresses of her generation.
Rani accepted the award from President Droupadi Murmu in Delhi and was surrounded by peers and admirers.
Rani was seated in the front row beside Shah Rukh Khan, her long-time co-star with whom she has created so many cinematic memories.
Both shared quiet smiles, while nearby Vikrant Massey applauded, soaking in his own moment among the industry’s most senior figures.
The 71st National Film Awards cermony is currently bein held in New Delhi, and can be streamed on the official YouTube handle of PIB India.
For Rani, this win was particularly special because Mrs. Chatterjee vs. Norway is a profoundly poignant tale which is based on actual events rather than just another movie.
The movie tells the story of Sagarika Chakraborty, an Indian mother who lives in Norway and lost custody of her kids in 2011. Norwegian authorities misinterpreted common cultural practices like hand-feeding and co-sleeping, which are common in Indian homes, as neglect.
Her children had to fight a protracted, agonising battle across cultural boundaries and on foreign soil.
Rani takes on Debika Chatterjee's role on screen, portraying the pain of a mother who is separated from her kids and the unwavering spirit that motivates her to fight.
Her portrayal of grief and resiliency without delving into melodrama was praised by critics for combining strength and fragility. Many praised her for sensitively and honestly expressing the experience of immigrants.
As she accepted the award, surrounded by peers and admirers, it felt like a full-circle moment for Rani Mukerji.
Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey shared the award for Best actor for Jawan and 12th Fail respectively.
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