30 Glorious Years: Rani Mukerji’s Unmatched Journey in the Film Industry

Rani Mukerji has completed three remarkable decades in Hindi cinema. She belongs to that rare league of actresses who, in every phase of their career, have portrayed strong, independent, and thoughtful women on screen. Right from her debut, Rani chose roles that questioned societal norms and gave voice to women’s dignity, equality, and self-respect. Through her performances, she redefined the modern Indian woman. Rani Mukerji’s cinema is not just about entertainment—it is a reflection of society and a powerful thought process.

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Creating Her Own Identity

Rani Mukerji comes from a family deeply rooted in the film industry. Her father, Ram Mukherjee, was a co-founder of Filmalaya Studios, while her mother was a singer. She is also the cousin of filmmaker Ayan Mukerji and actress Kajol. Despite this strong film background, Rani never relied on her lineage. She carved her own path through sheer talent, dedication, and perseverance, earning recognition not only in India but globally.

From Bengali Cinema to Hindi Films

Rani began her acting journey with her father’s Bengali film Biyer Phool (1996), opposite Prosenjit Chatterjee. The same year, her Hindi debut Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat released, where she played Mala. Her powerful performance immediately caught the industry’s attention and led her to sign three Hindi films at once.

From ‘Mehndi’ to the ‘Khandala Girl’

In Mehndi (1998), Rani portrayed a strong woman standing up for her rights. That same year, her song “Aati Kya Khandala” from Ghulam, opposite Aamir Khan, turned her into the iconic “Khandala Girl.” Soon after, Karan Johar cast her as Tina in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998), for which she won the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress.

2002–2005: The Golden Phase

With Saathiya (2002), Rani entered a new chapter in her career. Films like Chalte Chalte, Yuva, Hum Tum, and Veer-Zaara established her as one of the most dependable actresses in the industry. In 2004, she achieved the rare feat of winning both Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress awards in the same year.

Iconic Films That Defined Her Career

Some of Rani Mukerji’s finest films include Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Hum Tum, Veer-Zaara, Black, Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, No One Killed Jessica, Talaash, and Hichki. Her performance in Black (2005) remains one of the finest in Indian cinema, portraying a deaf-blind woman with extraordinary depth and sensitivity. Hichki (2018) became her highest-grossing film, earning over ₹200 crore worldwide.

‘Mardaani’ Franchise: The Identity of Her Career

The most defining milestone of Rani Mukerji’s career is the Mardaani franchise. India’s only female-led theatrical franchise, it revolves around a fearless woman police officer. In Mardaani (2014) and Mardaani 2 (2019), Rani portrayed Shivani Shivaji Roy, a character who stands tall against crime, patriarchy, and violence. With Mardaani 3 on the way, the franchise continues to symbolize her 30-year journey.

National Recognition

In 2025, Rani Mukerji won the National Film Award for Best Actress for Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, marking a long-awaited national recognition and reaffirming her commitment to meaningful cinema.

Dreams That Changed Direction

Before entering films, Rani aspired to become a jewellery or interior designer after completing her Home Science degree. However, the high fee of ₹3 lakh became a hurdle, turning her life toward cinema—where she ultimately found her true calling.

Personal Life – Daughter-in-Law of Yash Chopra

At the peak of her career, Rani Mukerji married renowned filmmaker Aditya Chopra in a private ceremony in Italy on April 21, 2014. The wedding was kept completely low-key. Today, she is the mother of a daughter, Adira. Aditya Chopra is the chairman of Yash Raj Films and the son of legendary filmmaker Yash Chopra. Through this relationship, Rani became part of one of Indian cinema’s most respected families, yet she has always let her work define her identity.

Upcoming Film

Rani Mukerji will soon be seen in Mardaani 3, reprising her role as Shivani Shivaji Roy. The film is slated for release on January 30, 2026.

Even after 30 years, Rani Mukerji remains one of the most irreplaceable actresses in Hindi cinema. Her journey is a testament to powerful performances, meaningful storytelling, and her ability to evolve with changing times. She continues to prove that true talent transcends time.

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