Rani Mukerji, a prominent figure in Bollywood for over 27 years, recently shared insights into her initial foray into the film industry and her father's reservations about her career choice. Born into the Mukherjee-Samarth family, where many members were already established in the Indian film industry, Rani's entry into acting was not initially driven by personal ambition. Her father, Ram Mukherjee, a former film director and one of the founders of Filmalaya Studios, "was not keen" on her becoming an actress.
Mukerji, born in Mumbai on March 21, 1978, revealed that her father's hesitation stemmed from a belief that there were "already too many actresses at home," and he desired something different for her. Despite her family's deep roots in Bollywood, she initially harbored no dreams of joining the industry. In fact, she had aimed to focus on her studies. She received her education at Maneckji Cooper High School in Juhu and graduated with a degree in Home Science from SNDT Women's University.
However, circumstances changed when her family faced financial difficulties. It was her mother, Krishna Mukherjee, a former playback singer, who suggested that she try acting on an experimental basis, with the option to return to her studies if it didn't work out. This encouragement led Rani to accept her first role in her father's Bengali film, Biyer Phool (1996). In the same year, she took on her first leading role in the social drama Raja Ki Aayegi Baaraat, where she portrayed a rape victim forced to marry her rapist.
Despite her initial success, her father remained concerned about her pursuing a full-time career in film at such a young age. This divergence in opinion highlights the complexities of familial expectations and individual aspirations within the context of the Indian film industry.
Rani's career trajectory saw a turning point in 1998 with Ghulam, opposite Aamir Khan, which brought her wider recognition. Later that year, her role in Karan Johar's Kuch Kuch Hota Hai further solidified her position in Bollywood. After some initial struggles, her career gained momentum in 2002 when she starred in Yash Raj Films' Saathiya.
Mukerji has established herself as a versatile actress known for her sensitive and nuanced performances. She has received critical acclaim for roles in films like Yuva (2004) and Black (2005). In 2025, Mukerji 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 dream for her and the profound impact of his and her mother’s support on her journey. Ram Mukherjee passed away in 2017.
Rani Mukerji's journey exemplifies how an initial reluctance and parental reservation can evolve into a celebrated career, shaped by talent, opportunity, and the unwavering support of family.
