Rani Mukerji Secures First National Award for Best Actress
Veteran actress Rani Mukerji has achieved a significant career milestone, winning her first-ever National Award for Best Actress. She was recognized for her powerful and moving performance in the film Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway. The prestigious honour, conferred at a ceremony in New Delhi, marks a pinnacle in her celebrated three-decade-long career in Indian cinema.
An Emotional and Personal Dedication
In a heartfelt statement following the win, Mukerji dedicated the award to her late father. She shared that it had always been his dream to see her receive this specific accolade, making the moment deeply personal and poignant. "I miss him deeply today, and I know it’s his blessing and my mother’s constant strength and inspiration that guided me through the role of Mrs. Chatterjee," she expressed, highlighting the profound family connection to her success.
Gratitude and a Tribute to Motherhood
Mukerji also extended her profound gratitude to her fans, whose unwavering support she credited as a primary motivation throughout her career. She shared the honour with the film's director, producers, and the entire cast and crew, acknowledging their collective effort in bringing the challenging story to life, especially during the difficult period of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Connecting the award to the film's central theme, she described it as a tribute to mothers all over the world. The role of an immigrant mother fighting for her child resonated with her personally, and she hoped the film served as a reminder of the strength and resilience inherent in women.
A Star-Studded Ceremony
The National Awards ceremony, held at Vigyan Bhawan and presided over by President Droupadi Murmu, was a celebration of cinematic excellence. Alongside Mukerji, other leading stars were honoured, including Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey for their acting performances. The event's highest honor, the Dadasaheb Phalke lifetime achievement award, was bestowed upon Malayalam superstar Mohanlal for his remarkable five-decade career, drawing a standing ovation from the audience.
Highlights of a Landmark Achievement
Career Milestone: After a 30-year career, Rani Mukerji has won her first National Award for Best Actress for her role in Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway.
Heartfelt Dedication: She dedicated the prestigious award to her late father, stating that it was the fulfillment of a long-held dream of his.
Tribute to Mothers: The actress connected her win to the film's theme, honoring the strength and courage of mothers worldwide.
Distinguished Honourees: The awards ceremony also celebrated other top actors like Shah Rukh Khan, while Mohanlal received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
