Cinema VinesRani Mukerji has been honoured for her three decades of work in cinema with a special citation for excellence in acting at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM). The award, presented during the 2026 edition of the festival which runs from August 13 to 23, recognises the actress’s memorable performances and the lasting impact she has had on audiences in India and across the world.
During the ceremony, Mukerji appeared in a striking geranium‑red monochrome outfit, a nod to her fashion sense and the vibrant energy she brings to her roles. She reflected on her career, noting that when she first entered the industry as a young girl she never imagined her films would travel across oceans and be embraced by audiences in a country as far away as Australia. She said that entertaining people worldwide through cinema is the greatest gift the profession has given her and that Australia has always welcomed Indian cinema with open arms.
She spoke about the emotional depth of her characters, describing how they have shaped her personally over the years. “As actors, we perform in front of a camera. But the real story begins only when that performance reaches someone's heart,” she said. “To know that for three decades my films, my characters and my voice have travelled so far from home and still found a place in your lives is incredibly humbling.” She added that playing women who laugh loudly, love deeply, fight fearlessly and never stop believing in themselves has made her a better actor and a better human being.
Mukerji’s filmography spans a wide range of roles, from the crime thriller Black and the romantic comedy Hum Tum to the social drama No One Killed Jessica, the inspirational Hichki, the action franchise Mardaani and the courtroom drama Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway. Each of these films showcases a different side of her acting, contributing to her reputation as one of India’s most versatile actresses.
The award highlights not only Mukerji’s individual achievements but also the growing international reach of Indian cinema. Her work has resonated with viewers across cultures, demonstrating that stories and emotions transcend borders. The IFFM’s celebration of Indian film on a global stage underscores the importance of cross‑cultural storytelling and the universal language of cinema.
