MUMBAI: Renowned Bollywood actress Rani Mukerji was bestowed with the prestigious Raj Kapoor’s “Special Contribution Award” during the 62nd Maharashtra State Film Awards ceremony held in Mumbai.
The award was officially presented by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at the Ravindra Natya Mandir in Prabhadevi, with several notable dignitaries, including Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar and prominent members of the film industry, attending the event.
Expressing her heartfelt emotions, Rani Mukerji shared that the accolade holds immense significance for her, especially since it originates from the state where she has spent nearly three decades building her film career. She praised the legacy of Raj Kapoor, emphasizing that receiving recognition in his name was a deeply humbling experience and a moment she would cherish forever.
In her address, Rani reflected on her bond with Mumbai, calling it her identity and her home. She stated, “Mumbai has given me my career, my audience, and my life. This award will always be special to me because every time I look at it, I see my Mumbai, my Maharashtra.”
The actress highlighted her commitment to portraying strong, authentic women in cinema. She said, “I’ve always aimed to represent the powerful women of India through stories that resonate with truth and resilience. My characters have courage, flaws, and a refusal to fade into the background. Women who don’t wait for rescue but stand tall on their own.”
Rani also emphasized her emotional connection to the Maharashtra film industry, stating, “For me, cinema is more than just a profession—it’s a deep-rooted emotion. Maharashtra is the heart of that emotion.” She paid tribute to the countless industry workers behind the scenes, acknowledging their dedication to storytelling.
She concluded by dedicating the award to Maharashtra and its thriving film community, saying, “With heartfelt gratitude, I dedicate this honor to Maharashtra and everyone involved in its vibrant film industry. The stories created here travel across India and the world, showcasing the magic of Maharashtra’s cinema.”
