Rani Mukerji is one of Bollywood’s most acclaimed and versatile actors, renowned for her powerful performances in films such as Black, Mardaani, and Hichki. With a career spanning nearly three decades, she has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry and continues to remain a beloved star among audiences.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Rani speaks candidly, on her very first podcast, about her journey in cinema, winning a National Award for the first time, and her long-standing friendship with Shah Rukh Khan.

She also shares her views on the recent debate around 8-hour work shifts in the film industry and explains why she prefers to stay away from the media and paparazzi. Beyond her on-screen life, Rani opens up about balancing family and career, and what continues to inspire her as an actor today.

00:00 – Introduction

01:20 – Winning the National Film Award

05:15 – Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway Story

07:31 – Challenges Faced by Immigrants

09:08 – Preparing for a Character

10:26 – Rani & Karan’s Kids Watched the Ceremony

11:43 – Wedding Pictures & Privacy

15:49 – Actresses and Their Private Lives

18:40 – First Screen Test & Mom’s Reaction

20:20 – Role in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai

21:36 – Backlash over Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna

26:50 – Handling Setbacks After Success

28:54 – Reinventing Herself

32:14 – Creative Process During Hichki

36:00 – Pausing Career for Her Daughter

38:33 – Durga Puja Celebrations

41:26 – Competition With Kajol?

45:15 – Bringing Indian Women to the Forefront

48:37 – Husband’s Support for Hichki

51:29 – Deepika’s 8-Hour Shift Demand

54:19 – Films Better Planned Today?

55:57 – Who Shah Rukh Khan Gels With Better

56:41 – Winning National Award After 30 Years

58:06 – Directors Who Bring Out the Best in Her

1:04:04 – Will Rani Mukerji Direct a Film?

1:05:42 – Upcoming Projects

1:07:38 – A Message for All Women