BW MIW : Rani Mukerji - The Powerful Actor

This ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ actor has captured the hearts of viewers across the globe. Her powerful performance and complete immersion in her characters make the story come alive. Mukerji’s latest movie was ‘Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway,’ her performance won rave reviews. Look at her list of films; she picks projects that tell the story of strong women. We at BW Businessworld caught up with this powerhouse to understand what drives her.

You chose women-centric films well before the conversation about changing how women are portrayed in cinema began. What made you do so?

I have always let my instinct drive me when deciding which movie roles to pick. Sometimes, the stories or characters moved me; other times, I felt the stories needed to be told. I have been drawn to roles where women have powerful characters, bringing about a change in the mindset of people or society and inspiring people.

Regardless of where it was set, I always needed to connect to the characters and stories. I used to take cues from my life or those I have seen around me and build the character nuances. I am happy that the audience accepted all the stories and characters I got to portray on screen and showered me with so much love.

Which of these women-centric projects has been your favourite and why?

I would say ‘Mardaani.’ It is a subject inspired by real-life stories and experiences of women police officers in our country. They work tirelessly fighting crime and taking care of their homes too– the perfect balancing act. The movie was a great way of showcasing the power, grit, strength, and courage of women police officers.

In the police force, male and female officers work together, following a hierarchy system based on merit and experience. Sometimes, women are in superior positions where they command respect and stature, but at times, they have to handle gender prejudices and biases. These detailed nuances help us understand how they deal with all situations gracefully and with dignity. ‘Mardaani’ is a film and character I have thoroughly enjoyed portraying on celluloid.

A woman director whose work you admire?

I admire Zoya Akhtar’s work- she handles relationships between the characters beautifully. Then there is Mira Nair. The way she develops the characters in her movies is amazing. And now, to add to the list, Greta Gerwig. I love what she has done with ‘Barbie.’

How do you keep yourself motivated when faced with challenges?

One must appreciate what one has. This is where my motivation comes from. There are so many things to do and stories to tell. Staying self-motivated and seeing your own glass half full rather than half empty is essential.