Veteran actor Rani Mukerji achieved a major career milestone earlier this year, securing her first National Film Award for Best Actress. She was recognised for her compelling performance in the film Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway at the 71st National Awards ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi. While Mukerji’s win was widely praised, the recognition of some of her industry colleagues faced scrutiny and criticism. This recurring pattern of controversy surrounding major award choices has prompted Mukerji to share her perspective on the true value and significance of such accolades, particularly when their credibility is questioned.
Speaking to ANI in a recent podcast, the actor revealed that her inaugural National Award win, coming after three decades in the industry, was exceptionally meaningful. She noted the overwhelming support from fans across the country for her and for her contemporary, Shah Rukh Khan, who also secured his first National Award this year. Mukerji emphasized the importance of public validation: “That is the most satisfying feeling because when you win an award and people say ‘she doesn’t deserve it’, there is no value of that award. But when you win an award and people say you deserve it and it is well-earned, that’s what makes me feel more fulfilled.”
Rani Mukerji also delved into the question of whether awards truly matter to actors. For her, the answer is unequivocally yes, largely because of the connection they forge with the audience. “Everything matters,” she asserted. “I work for my audience. I am working so hard because I want to impress my audience.” She views an award not just as personal recognition but as a source of joy and pride for her fanbase. “When I get an award, it makes them happy, and it makes them proud to be my fans. So, of course, winning an award makes it special for them,” she added, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between an actor’s success and the audience’s investment.
A First National Win for Industry Veterans
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The 71st National Awards proved historic for both Rani Mukerji and Shah Rukh Khan, who despite numerous Filmfare Awards and other accolades, were receiving their first National Awards. Mukerji has an impressive tally of Filmfare Best Actress trophies, but this marked a new peak in her career. Similarly, Shah Rukh Khan was honored with the Best Actor award for his role in Jawan. However, Khan’s win sparked a degree of controversy, with fans of Malayalam actor Prithviraj Sukumaran voicing their displeasure, questioning the decision over their idol’s performance.
Mukerji’s comments on the diminishing value of questioned awards are particularly poignant in the context of these industry debates. Her focus remains on the satisfaction derived from recognition that is universally acknowledged and deemed well-deserved.