Strong portrayal of Indian women in my films: Rani Mukherjee during the 54th edition of IFFI in Goa

An interesting In Conversation session with Hindi film actress Rani Mukherjee on 'Giving Powerful Performances' was held today at the 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. Moderated by Galattaplus Editor-in-Chief and National Award-winning film critic Bhardwaj Ranjan, this spontaneous discussion highlights the life and illustrious career of Rani Mukherjee.

 

Reflecting on her cinematic journey, Rani said that she always tried to portray Indian women as strong characters. “Outside India, films and their characters are seen as a window into our Indian culture,” she said.

Emphasizing the importance of commitment to the art, the talented actress said, “It is important to always stand with strong films and roles. Sometimes you may not get the appreciation of the audience at the same time, but it is important to make a difference in the history of cinema. In India, such films and characters will find their place."

Rani Mukherjee also underlined the importance of an actor being versatile. Discussing this in detail, she said, "If an actor is versatile, they can portray different aspects of life. The more diverse I can make my characters, the better it is for the audience and me. It will be interesting. This diversity in characters also inspires me."

Exploring the intricacies of characterization, Rani explains, "To play particular roles, actors often meet similar people in real life, so that they can accurately convey the characteristics of that character. But also knowing what is important is what emotions they are going through. The emotions behind any film scene are what make that scene different. It is important to portray emotions to reach the heart of the audience."

 

On the subject of age discrimination in the film industry, the renowned actress said that actors have to accept their age and play roles appropriate to their age so that the audience can accept them in that role. She said the audience helped her break discrimination and other barriers in the film industry.

Sharing her personal views, Rani said, "I don't give much importance to age and try to do justice to my characters. If you look like the character you are playing, then people will relate to that character. Half the battle of getting trust is won at that very moment.”

Expressing satisfaction over her journey, the renowned actress said that she never regretted playing any character in her cinematic career. She said, "But unfortunately, I could not be a part of Aamir Khan's first film 'Lagaan' produced by him due to date clash.

From 'Tina Malhotra' from Kuch Kuch Hota Hai to 'Maya Talwar' from Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna and 'Debika Chatterjee' from Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, Rani Mukherjee has enthralled the audience with her hundreds of beautiful characters. When asked about his favorite character played by him, he said that the character in the film 'Black' is closest to his heart. He said that this character changed him and helped him become a better person. She said, "The character of 'Michelle McNally' in 'Black' inspired me as well as challenged me. The character of 'Mehndi' also empowered me."