Rani Mukerji Triumphs with First National Award for ‘Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway’

Rani Mukerji Triumphs with First National Award for ‘Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway’

In a statement following the win, Mukerji expressed that she was “truly overwhelmed” to receive the honor, emphasizing that it means the world to her.

RMN News Entertainment Desk
September 25, 2025

NEW DELHI, September 25, 2025 – Actress Rani Mukerji secured the Best Actress National Film Award at the 71st National Film Awards for her compelling performance in the film Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway. This win, which took place at a ceremony in New Delhi, marks Mukerji’s first National Award after nearly 30 years in the industry.

Mukerji received the prestigious award from President Droupadi Murmu. Dressed elegantly in a saree, the actress was seated in the front row alongside her longtime co-star Shah Rukh Khan, while fellow honoree Vikrant Massey was seated nearby.

A Victory for Motherhood

The film, Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, tells the true story of an Indian mother living in Norway who loses custody of her children after Norwegian authorities misunderstand typical Indian parenting habits, such as co-sleeping and hand-feeding, as neglect.

Mukerji’s performance as the mother, fighting across cultures and countries to get her children back, was lauded for realistically showcasing the struggles of immigrants and depicting her character’s pain and strong will without being overly dramatic. The story deeply moved Mukerji because it captures the “unbreakable spirit of an immigrant mother”.

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In a statement following the win, Mukerji expressed that she was “truly overwhelmed” to receive the honor, emphasizing that it means the world to her. She dedicated the award to her late father, who had always dreamt of this moment for her, and credited the role’s guidance to her father’s blessing and her mother’s “constant strength and inspiration”.

For Mukerji, the role was “incredibly personal,” as she is a mother herself. She used the moment to pay tribute to all mothers globally, recognizing “their strength, courage and unconditional love”.

Mukerji also shared her gratitude, thanking the esteemed National Award jury for recognizing their work, and acknowledging her fans for their unwavering love and support. She also shared the award with the production team, including director Ashima, producers Nikkhil, Monisha, and Madhu, everyone at Zee, and the entire cast and crew from Estonia and India.

Best Actor Honors Shared

Meanwhile, the 71st National Film Awards also honored Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey, who both shared the Best Actor award. Khan was recognized for his performance in Jawan, and Massey was honored for his role in 12th Fail. The 71st National Film Awards ceremony was held in New Delhi.