A captivating In-Conversation session with the Hindi film actress, Rani Mukerji, exploring the theme of ‘Delivering Compelling Performances’ was held at 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa today. Moderated by Baradwaj Rangan, Editor-in-Chief of Galatta Plus and a National Award-winning Film Critic, the freewheeling discussion delved into Mukerji’s life and illustrious career.
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 viewed as windows towards our Indian culture.”
Emphasizing the importance of commitment to one’s craft, the accomplished actress asserted, “It is important to always stand by strong films and roles. Sometimes you might not get the audience’s approval at that period of time. But in the history of cinema, such films and characters will find a place.”
Rani Mukerji also highlighted the significance of versatility for an actor. Elaborating on its significance, she said, “If an actor is versatile, they can portray different facets of life. The more diverse I can make my characters, it will be more interesting for the audience and me. This diversity in characters also inspires me.”
Delving into the intricacies of character portrayal, Rani shared, “For doing particular roles, actors often meet real-life people to get their physical characteristics right. But it is also important to know what all emotions they are going through. What distinguishes a scene in a film is the emotions behind the scene. It is important to portray the emotions for it to reach the audience’s heart.”
On the topic of ageism in the film industry, the renowned actress opined that actors need to acknowledge their age and accept roles that suit their age for the audience to receive them. She added that the audience helped her to break ageism and other barriers in the film industry.
Sharing her personal reflection, Rani remarked, “I don’t give much importance to the age factor and tried to do justice to my characters. Fifty percent of your battle of making people believe in the character is won if you look like the character.”
While expressing contentment with her journey, the celebrated actress revealed that she never regret doing any characters in her cinema life. “But it was unfortunate that I couldn’t be part of Aamir Khan’s first production venture film ‘Lagaan‘ due to a date clash,” she added.
From ‘Tina Malhotra’ in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai to ‘Maya Talwar’ in Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna and ‘Debika Chatterjee’ in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, Rani Mukerji has enthralled the audience with hundreds of beautiful characters. On the question of her favourite character that she has played, she revealed that the character in the film ‘Black’ is closest to her heart, illuminating that the character transformed her and helped her to be a better human being. “The character of ‘Michelle McNally’ in Black inspired and challenged me at the same time. The character in ‘Mehndi‘ also empowered me.”
