Cinema VinesThe Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) announced that celebrated actress and humanitarian Rani Mukerji will receive an Honorary Doctor of Letters from La Trobe University during the festival’s 2026 edition. The award will be presented in a special ceremony on 14 August 2026 at Federation Square, Melbourne, as part of the festival’s celebrations.
La Trobe University will bestow the honorary degree to honour Mukerji’s remarkable contributions to Indian cinema and her long‑standing commitment to social causes that support women, children and marginalised communities. The award recognises her nearly thirty‑year career, which includes powerful performances in films such as Black, No One Killed Jessica, Hichki, the Mardaani franchise and Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway. These roles have helped bring issues of women’s rights, gender justice, disability inclusion and social change to mainstream audiences.
Beyond her on‑screen work, Mukerji has backed humanitarian initiatives focused on children’s healthcare, education and community development, reflecting her dedication to creating meaningful social impact. In a statement, the actress expressed her gratitude: “I am deeply humbled to receive this Honorary Doctor of Letters from La Trobe University. Cinema has been the greatest teacher in my life’s journey, and I have always believed in the power of storytelling to inspire empathy, spark conversations and bring about positive change. To receive this honour during the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, which has consistently celebrated Indian cinema on a global stage, makes it even more special.”
La Trobe University Chancellor, The Hon John Brumby AO, added that Mukerji’s body of work has transcended entertainment to spark important conversations around social justice and equality. The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, running from 13 to 23 August 2026, continues to be a leading celebration of Indian cinema, strengthening cultural ties between India and Australia while showcasing stories and artists that resonate worldwide.
