Rani Mukerji feted with maiden National Award, dedicates it to late father

New Delhi, Sep 24
Known for delivering power-packed roles, actress Rani Mukerji, who has won her first National Award in a journey spanning over three decades, says she has dedicated the honour to her late father Ram Mukherjee.

Rani was awarded the Best Actress National Award for the film “Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway,” a legal drama directed by Ashima Chibber. The film also stars Anirban Bhattacharya, Neena Gupta, and Jim Sarbh.

The actress said: “I'm truly overwhelmed to receive my first National Award in my 30-year journey as an actor. This honour means the world to me, and I want to dedicate it to my late father, who always dreamt of this moment for me.”

“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 added.

The actress added: “To my incredible fans, thank you for being by my side through every high and low. Your unwavering love and support has been my greatest motivation. I know how much this award means to all of you, and it brings me immense joy and happiness to see how happy you are.”

Rani said that she shares this award with her brilliant director Ashima, producers Nikkhil, Monisha and Madhu.

“Above all, I thank my entire cast and crew from Estonia and India without whom this film could not have been made, especially during the challenges of the COVID period. The entire team of Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway poured their hearts into this powerful story, and I’m deeply grateful to each one of them.”

She went on to thank the esteemed National Award jury for recognising her work.

“This film, and this moment, will always hold a special place in my heart. This award is also a tribute to all the mothers around the world - their strength, courage and unconditional love.

The film is inspired by the real-life story of Sagarika Chakraborty and Anurup Bhattacharya, an Indian immigrant couple whose children were taken away by Norwegian authorities in 2011.

Talking about the film, Rani said: “Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway is a story that moved me deeply because it captures the unbreakable spirit of an immigrant mother, fighting against all odds in a foreign land to protect her child.”

“As a mother myself, this role was incredibly personal. Through this film, we tried to honour the spirit of motherhood and I hope it serves as a reminder of the quiet power women carry within them every single day.”