Entertainment

IIE DIGITAL: Rani Mukerji is all set to add another milestone to her illustrious career as she will be conferred with an Honorary Doctor of Letters by Australia's La Trobe University. The prestigious honour recognises her exceptional contribution to Indian cinema as well as her unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes. The award will be presented during a special ceremony at Melbourne's Federation Square on August 14, as part of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2026, scheduled to be held from August 13 to 23.

Over a career spanning nearly 30 years, Rani has established herself as one of Hindi cinema's most celebrated performers with acclaimed films including Hey Ram, Black, No One Killed Jessica, Hichki, the Mardaani franchise and Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway. Beyond her work on screen, the recognition also honours her support for initiatives focused on the welfare of women, children and underprivileged communities.

Reacting to the honour, Rani said she was deeply humbled to receive the honorary degree by describing cinema as her greatest teacher and storytelling as a medium that has the power to inspire compassion, encourage meaningful conversations, and bring about positive change. She added that receiving the recognition during IFFM made the moment even more memorable and dedicated the honour to India and to audiences across the globe whose love and encouragement have shaped her journey.

La Trobe University Chancellor John Brumby lauded Rani's body of work, saying her films have gone beyond entertainment to champion conversations on social justice, equality, and inclusion. Echoing the sentiment, IFFM Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange called Rani one of the defining actors of her generation, saying the festival is proud to celebrate an artist whose contribution has significantly enriched Indian cinema and strengthened its global presence.