Rani Mukerji has ruled over the Indian cinema with her iconic performances for over two decades now. From movies like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai to Mardaani, the actress has never failed to impress us. Her recent movie, Hichki was a superhit focused on overcoming a physical challenge with sheer determination and positivity.

Hugely lauded by audiences and critics alike, Hichki’s impact has resonated with Indian audiences worldwide and the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), presented by the Victorian Government in Australia will now honour Rani for her contribution to cinema and in being a torchbearer to such universal social causes by hosting a special felicitation in her honour.

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Expressing her happiness over receiving the honour, Rani expressed, “The power of cinema to spread important social messages and enact positive changes is unmatched. As an actor, I have been blessed to have got the chance to be a part of such amazing films that have tried to make people sit up and think about society, the need to preserve human lives and to value each individual's dreams and aspirations. It is humbling to be honoured by the provincial government of Victoria in Australia for a role that called for inclusion and equality of all individuals in our society. I’m thankful that my body of work has contributed to making positive change. Hichki is a very special film for me and this honour as part of the colorful Indian International Film Festival of Melbourne makes it even more memorable.”

Mitu Bhowmick Lange, director of IFFM said, “Rani is a rare Indian artist who embodies the spirit of ‘Inclusion’ in her work and performances. The Victorian government is proud to recognize the incredible joy, depth and awareness that Rani has brought for audiences through her work and is awarding her the ‘Excellence in Cinema’ Award this year.”

Apart from Hichki, Love Sonia and Sanju will also be screened at the IFFM.