Rani Mukerji receives honorary doctorate for contribution to Indian cinema

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Chandigarh, August 16

Actor Rani Mukerji has been awarded an honorary Doctor of Letters by Australia’s La Trobe University for her three decades of contribution to Indian cinema and her work beyond the screen. Rani became emotional while accepting the honour on stage and was seen wiping away tears of joy.

In a video shared by Viral Bhayani, the actor appeared visibly moved as she received the honorary degree. She later shared a note expressing her gratitude and described the recognition as one of the most humbling moments of her life.

Rani said she has always believed that films can touch hearts and create an impact. She highlighted her choice of stories that inspire and empower audiences, particularly those representing the strength of Indian women and girls.

She also emphasized that artists carry a responsibility beyond acting, adding that they become ambassadors of their culture. The honor also highlights cinema’s role in strengthening people-to-people relations between India and Australia.

In 2019, Shah Rukh Khan was also awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters by La Trobe University.

Rani was separately recognized by the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) with a special citation for acting excellence, acknowledging her three decades of memorable performances and the global reach of her work.

Her notable films include Black, Hum Tum, Yuva, Bunty Aur Babli, No One Killed Jessica, the Mardaani franchise, Hichki, and Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway. Last year, she won the National Award for Best Actress for her performance in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway.