Rani Mukerji marks 30 years in cinema, credits Karan Johar for preserving her screen voice

Actor Rani Mukerji recently became emotional while looking back on a defining moment from the early years of her career. As Rani Mukerji marks 30 years in the Indian film industry and prepares for the release of her upcoming film Mardaani 3, she sat down for a candid conversation with filmmaker and longtime associate Karan Johar. During the discussion, Rani Mukerji spoke openly about a professional setback that once made her question her place in the industry and the support that later helped her move forward with confidence.

The conversation focused on Rani Mukerji’s journey from her early roles to becoming one of Hindi cinema’s most recognizable voices and faces. While reflecting on her career, the actor acknowledged that the path was not always smooth, particularly in the late 1990s when she was still establishing herself.

Rani Mukerji recalls her voice being dubbed in Ghulam

Rani Mukerji revisited her experience working on the 1998 film Ghulam, where she starred opposite Aamir Khan. During the making of the film, she was informed that her voice was not considered suitable for the character and would be dubbed by another artist. The decision, while made in the interest of the film, had a personal impact on the actor.

“I was told my voice was not apt for the film,” Rani shared. “It was definitely upsetting, but I couldn’t show it. When you are part of a film, you have to be a team player. Even if there are personal disappointments, they don’t matter if the intention is right for the film.”

In Ghulam, Rani Mukerji’s voice was dubbed by Mona Ghosh Shetty. Although the film went on to perform well at the box office, the experience left a lasting impression on Rani Mukerji. She admitted that the incident led her to worry whether her natural voice might become an obstacle in future roles and whether it would limit the opportunities offered to her.

Rani Mukerji and Karan Johar on Kuch Kuch Hota Hai

Later in the same year, Rani Mukerji worked with Karan Johar on Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, a film that would become a turning point in her career. During their recent conversation, Rani Mukerji became visibly emotional as she thanked Karan Johar for trusting her voice at a time when she was uncertain about her standing in the industry.

“I really owe this to Karan,” she said tearfully. “When we were shooting the trailer of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, you asked me if I had dubbed my voice in my first film and whether I had a problem with it. I said no. You told me, ‘I love your voice.’ I still remember that moment. Because of you, Karan, I could retain my voice.”

For Rani Mukerji, this moment of reassurance played a crucial role in shaping her confidence and screen identity. It marked the first time audiences experienced her natural voice fully on screen, something that would later become one of her most distinctive features as an actor.

Karan Johar on Rani Mukerji’s screen identity

Responding to Rani Mukerji’s remarks, Karan Johar expressed his admiration for her individuality and described her voice as one of her defining strengths. He noted that her voice was instantly recognizable and deeply connected to her presence on screen. During the exchange, he also kissed her on the cheek, reinforcing the warmth and respect that has marked their long professional association.

Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, released in 1998, became a major box office success and played a significant role in establishing Rani Mukerji as a leading actor in Hindi cinema. The film not only expanded her reach with audiences but also helped cement her identity without altering her natural voice.

Rani Mukerji’s journey and lasting impact

Looking back, Rani Mukerji’s reflections underline how early career experiences can shape an actor’s confidence and trajectory. Her account highlights the importance of support from filmmakers who recognize individuality rather than asking performers to conform. As Rani Mukerji celebrates three decades in cinema, her journey serves as a reminder of resilience, professional discipline, and the impact a single vote of confidence can have at a critical stage.

With Mardaani 3 on the horizon and a career spanning 30 years, Rani Mukerji continues to reflect on the moments that defined her path, including those that tested her and those that helped her move forward with clarity and self-belief.