#iffm2026

It’s easy to get lost in the noise of viral clips and weekly debuts, often forgetting what actual longevity looks like in this industry. Most actors burn out or fade into the background after a decade. Seeing someone stay not just relevant, but essential, for thirty years is a total rarity. If you’ve ever felt like our icons don't get their global flowers, Rani Mukerji’s recent night in Melbourne finally changed that.

I’ve noticed that people often box Indian cinema into a "niche" category once it leaves the subcontinent. The struggle has always been making local stories feel universal without losing their soul. Rani’s experience at the 15th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) proved there's a better way to look at it. She didn't just show up for a trophy; she shared a philosophy that actually makes sense: "Emotions don't need passports."

She’s spent three decades playing women who laugh loudly and fight fearlessly. That’s the real solution to the "global appeal" puzzle—staying authentic. Her recognition wasn't just a cinematic honor; she was also presented with an Honorary Doctorate, proving her impact goes way beyond the silver screen.

How to appreciate this milestone:

Look back at the "fearless" roles: From Black to Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway, her career is a blueprint for character-driven choices.

Support the bridge-builders: IFFM, backed by the Victorian Government, is one of the few places where legends like Rekha and new stars like Rishab Shetty share the same air.

Focus on the "purity of performance": Rani mentioned how every role made her a better person. That’s a lesson in growth for any professional, not just actors.

In short, 30 years in, she isn't acting like a veteran heading for retirement. She’s acting like someone who’s just getting started on a new chapter of global storytelling.

Personal Opinion: Honestly, Rani’s greatest strength has always been her refusal to "mellow out" with age. While many actresses are pressured to take softer roles, she’s leaned into characters that are even more defiant. That "Excellence in Acting" award wasn't for her past; it was for her staying power.