Rani Mukerji started her Bollywood career with Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat in 1997. Though the film did moderately at the box office, the actress garnered attention for her powerful performance and was hailed as a promising newcomer in the industry. Later, she went on to do blockbuster hits including Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Hum Tum, and Saathiya, among others.
As an established actress with a successful career spanning over two decades, Mukerji has served as an inspiration for actors in Bollywood. On the special occasion of Rani’s birthday, let us go down memory lane to revive her best performances.
Rani Mukerji’s Blockbuster Brilliance
Here are the top roles aced by Rani Mukerji that stole our hearts.
1. Michelle McNally
Movie: Black
Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Black is a poignant story that revolves around Michelle McNally, a young girl who is both blind and deaf from birth, and her relationship with her teacher.
Mukerji’s portrayal of Michelle McNally is incredibly moving and authentic. The actress effectively conveys the challenges and frustrations of living with such profound disabilities, while also portraying the character’s intelligence, resilience, and spirit. Mukerji’s performance is characterized by subtle nuances and powerful expressions that capture the audience’s empathy and admiration.
The role showcased her versatility as an actress and solidified her reputation as one of the most talented performers in Indian cinema.
2. Shivani Shivaji Roy
Movie: Mardaani & Mardaani 2
As Shivani Shivaji Roy, a tough and dedicated police officer, Mukerji delivers a powerful portrayal of a woman determined to fight against the social evils of human trafficking and child exploitation. The actor’s performance is characterized by a perfect balance of vulnerability and resilience, showcasing Shivani’s inner turmoil and unwavering commitment to justice.
Moreover, Rani embodies the role with authenticity, bringing to life the struggles and challenges faced by women in law enforcement.
3. Naina Mathur
Movie: Hichki
Rani Mukerji’s role in Hichki is widely acclaimed and regarded as one of the standout performances of her career. The actress effectively captures the nuances of Tourette syndrome, portraying Naina’s struggles with involuntary tics and societal stigma with empathy and realism. Despite the challenges, the protagonist’s indomitable spirit and determination to pursue her dreams shine through in Rani’s performance.
4. Meera Gaity
Movie: No One Killed Jessica
Rani Mukerji exudes confidence and conviction, embodying the role of a journalist who is unafraid to challenge the powerful and corrupt forces obstructing justice. The actor’s performance is marked by sharp dialogue delivery, assertive body language, and a strong sense of moral outrage, which effectively conveys Meera’s relentless pursuit of truth and accountability.
Mukerji’s portrayal of the fearless journalist resonated with audiences, capturing the spirit of activism and the power of individuals to make a difference in society.
5. Tina Malhotra
Movie: Kuch Kuch Hota Hai
Rani Mukerji’s portrayal of Tina in Karan Johar’s Kuch Kuch Hota Hai was a defining moment in her career. Playing the role of a young, vivacious college student, Mukerji brought charm, innocence, and depth to the character. Tina’s transformation from a carefree girl to a mature woman dealing with love and loss was beautifully depicted by Mukerji, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Moreover, her chemistry with Shah Rukh Khan’s character Rahul was palpable, adding layers of emotion to their on-screen relationship.
From captivating audiences with her mesmerizing performances to leaving an indelible mark on the silver screen, Rani’s talent knows no bounds. Mukerji’s contributions as an actress have left a lasting impact on Bollywood, enriching the industry with her talent, versatility, and commitment to portraying meaningful and memorable characters.