The 71st National Film Awards, which were announced on August 1, 2025, in New Delhi, have sparked celebrations across the Indian film industry. Among the winners, Rani Mukerji bagged her first-ever National Film Award for Best Actress for her powerful performance in "Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway". The film, directed by Ashima Chibber, was released in March 2023 and is based on a true story. It revolves around Debika Chatterjee, an Indian woman in Norway who fights to regain custody of her children after they are separated from her by Norwegian authorities.

Reacting to Rani Mukerji's win, Ashima Chibber expressed her admiration and joy. While her direct quote isn't available, it's clear that she sees Rani's win as a recognition of her talent and dedication.

Rani Mukerji herself was overwhelmed by the honor. In a statement, she said, "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 also expressed her gratitude to the jury and credited her team for the film's success. "I thank the National Award jury for honouring my work. I share this moment with the entire team of the film, my producers Nikkhil Advani, Monisha and Madhu, my director Ashima Chibber, and everyone who worked on this truly special project that celebrated the resilience of motherhood," she added.

Mukerji described the award as deeply personal and a validation of her 30-year journey in cinema. "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," she said.

The actress dedicated her National Award to mothers worldwide, saying, "There is nothing like a mother's love and her ferocity to protect her own... a mother's love for her child is unconditional. I realised this when I had my own. So, this win, this film feels deeply emotional and personal".

Following the announcement, Rani Mukerji visited Mumbai's Siddhivinayak Temple to offer prayers. She also thanked her fans for their unwavering support throughout her career. "Your unconditional love and support is everything that I have ever needed," she said.

The 71st National Film Awards recognized outstanding cinematic achievements across various languages and genres. Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey shared the Best Actor award for "Jawan" and "12th Fail," respectively. "12th Fail" also won the award for Best Feature Film. Karan Johar’s "Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani" won the award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. The Kerala Story won the award for Best Direction.