Bollywood star Rani Mukerji was bestowed with the prestigious Raj Kapoor Special Contribution Award at a grand ceremony held in Mumbai. The event marked the 62nd edition of the Maharashtra State Film Awards, celebrating excellence and notable achievements in cinema.
Presented by Devendra Fadnavis
During the ceremony, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis presented the coveted honor to Rani Mukerji. The event also saw the esteemed presence of Minister for Cultural Affairs Advocate Ashish Shelar, who joined the celebrations on stage.
A Deep Connection With Maharashtra
Following her felicitation, Rani Mukerji grew emotional and spoke candidly about her profound bond with the state of Maharashtra. She stated that Maharashtra is not merely a state on the map for her, but rather her birthplace and her workplace, defining it as an indispensable part of her existence.
Gratitude Toward Mumbai
The actress acknowledged that Mumbai has given her an identity, dedicated audiences, and a flourishing career over the years. According to her, the city has always provided a safe haven and a true home, making this accolade exceptionally personal. She noted that every time she looks at the trophy, she will see her Mumbai and her beloved Maharashtra reflected in it.
Championing Strong Female Roles
Reflecting on her film choices, Rani emphasized that she has consistently sought out scripts and characters that project women in powerful, independent lights. She explained that she gravitates toward roles defined by courage, flaws, and the determination to carve out a distinct identity rather than staying hidden. She added that cinema has never been just a profession for her, but a deep emotion with Maharashtra serving as its home.
