Rani Mukerji wins Best Actress at 71st National Film Awards for Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway

The winners of the prestigious 71st National Film Awards were announced on Friday at the National Media Centre in New Delhi, celebrating the best of Indian cinema for the year 2023. 

Among the notable wins, Rani Mukerji was honored with the Best Actress award for her role in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway. 

   

Mrs. 

Chatterjee vs Norway, an emotional courtroom drama directed by Ashima Chibber and produced by Monisha Advani, Madhu Bhojwani, and Nikkhil Advani under the banner of Emmay Entertainment, resonated deeply with both audiences and critics. Based on true events, the film tells the story of a mother fighting against a foreign legal system to win back her children. Rani Mukerji's performance as Debika Chatterjee, a mother's relentless and heartfelt struggle, was highly praised and has now been recognized at the national level. 

On winning the award, Rani Mukerji said, "I'm so happy and surprised to have won the National Award for my performance in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway. 

This is the first National Award I have ever received in my 30-year career. I have been lucky to work on some amazing films, and I really love them. I thank the National Award jury for honoring my work in this film. I share this moment with the entire team of the film, my producers Nikkhil Advani, Monisha and Madhu, my director Ashima Chibber, and everyone who worked on this truly special project that celebrated the strength of motherhood. For me, this award also recognizes my 30-year career, my dedication to my craft, and my love for cinema and this beautiful film industry. "   

She added, "I dedicate my National Award to all the incredible mothers in the world. 

A mother's love is unconditional, and her strength to protect her child is amazing. The story of this Indian immigrant mother who fought for her child and took on a whole nation deeply moved me. I realized this when I had my own child. So, this win and this film feel very emotional and personal. A mother can do anything for her children and make the world a better place. This film tried to show that. "   

Rani also thanked her fans from all over the world for their constant support over the past 30 years. 

"Your love and support have been everything to me. They have kept me motivated, helped me show up for work every day, and allowed me to create performances that have entertained you. Without you, I wouldn't be where I am today. "   

Rani delivered a powerful performance, bringing out the raw emotion, vulnerability, and strength of her character. 

She portrayed the pain and determination of a mother who would not give up. The emotional depth she brought to both the intense courtroom scenes and the more quiet moments of maternal sorrow was deeply moving and uplifting. 

The film also brought attention to cultural differences and the challenges of bureaucracy, and it further highlighted Rani's exceptional talent in leading a film with grace and depth.