Following her historic win at the 71st National Film Awards, veteran actress Rani Mukerji visited the Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai to offer prayers and express her gratitude. The acclaimed actress secured her first-ever National Award for Best Actress for her powerful performance in "Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway".
The 71st National Film Awards were announced on Friday at the National Media Centre in New Delhi. Rani Mukerji shared the prestigious Best Actress honor, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious 30-year career.
On Saturday, accompanied by her brother Raja Mukerji, Rani made a quiet visit to the Siddhivinayak Temple to seek blessings from Lord Ganesha. Pictures of the actress at the temple were shared on the temple's official Instagram page, capturing the moment of reverence and gratitude.
Rani Mukerji expressed immense joy and gratitude upon receiving her first National Award. In an official statement, she acknowledged the validation it brings to her three decades of work in the film industry. "I'm overwhelmed to have won the National Award for my performance in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway. Incidentally, this is the first-ever National Award in my 30-year career," she stated.
The actress dedicated the award to her entire team, including producers Nikkhil Advani, Monisha Advani, and Madhu Bhojwani, as well as director Ashima Chibber and every member who contributed to the film. She described "Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway" as a truly special project that celebrated the resilience of motherhood.
"For me, this award is also a validation of my 30-year body of work, my dedication to my craft with which I feel a deeply spiritual connection, and my passion for cinema and this beautiful film industry of ours,” Rani added.
Furthermore, Rani dedicated her National Award to all mothers worldwide, emphasizing the unparalleled love and ferocity of a mother protecting her children. She was deeply moved by the story of an Indian immigrant mother who fought against an entire nation for her child, a sentiment that resonated even more profoundly after she became a mother herself.
"Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway," directed by Ashima Chibber and released in 2023, is based on a real-life story. The film portrays the struggles of an Indian mother against the Norwegian legal system to regain custody of her children. Rani Mukerji's portrayal of the determined mother received widespread critical acclaim, ultimately leading to her National Award win.
The 71st National Film Awards recognized excellence across various categories of Indian cinema. Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey shared the Best Actor award for their performances in "Jawan" and "12th Fail," respectively.
Rani Mukerji's visit to the Siddhivinayak Temple following her National Award win reflects a moment of personal gratitude and spiritual connection, marking a full-circle moment in her celebrated career.
