Rani Mukerji recently shared that her father, Ram Mukerji, was "heartbroken" when she did not win the National Award for her performance in the critically acclaimed film Black. The actress opened up about her reaction to not winning the award and how it impacted her outlook on her career.
Speaking at an event in Delhi, Rani Mukerji recalled the widespread anticipation surrounding her potential win for Black, where she played Michelle McNally, a deaf, mute, and blind woman. Despite the positive chatter, she did not win the award. This outcome deeply affected her father, Ram Mukerji, who was "very disappointed and heartbroken". Even the film's director, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, shared in the disappointment.
Black, released in 2005, was inspired by the life of Helen Keller and starred Amitabh Bachchan as Debraj Sahai, Michelle's teacher. The film portrays the relationship between Michelle and Debraj, an aging teacher who later develops Alzheimer's disease. Black received widespread critical acclaim and garnered numerous awards. At the 53rd National Film Awards, Black won for Best Feature Film in Hindi, and Best Actor for Amitabh Bachchan. The film also swept the 51st Filmfare Awards, winning all eleven of its nominations, including Best Film, Best Director for Bhansali, Best Actor for Bachchan, and Best Actress for Mukerji.
Rani stated that not winning the National Award for Black served as a turning point in her career. She realized that even her best work might not always be recognized with awards. This understanding instilled a sense of resilience and a focus on consistently working hard, regardless of external validation.
Rani Mukerji recently received her first National Award for Best Actress for her performance in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway. She dedicated the award to her late father, acknowledging his long-held dream for her. She also expressed gratitude to her mother for her constant strength and inspiration. The film is based on the real-life story of Sagarika Chakraborty, an Indian mother whose children were taken away by Norwegian child welfare services in 2011.
Rani will next be seen in Mardaani 3, which is set to release in cinemas on February 27, 2026.
