Unfortunate I could not do Aamir's Lagaan: Rani

Playing female characters

“I made a conscious decision to play strong female characters in the films I choose because I firmly believe that the world needs to see today’s Indian women and not get an incorrect picture,” says Rani.

Memory Lane

Reflecting on the past, Rani expressed a rare moment of feeling “sad and unfortunate” for missing out on Ashutosh Gowariker’s Lagaan, produced by Aamir Khan. Despite not believing in regrets, she revealed, “The only film which I unfortunately miss not being part of was Lagaan.” Aamir, a dear friend, wanted her in the film but required all actors to stay in Bhuj for six months, a commitment she couldn’t make due to a prior signing. Despite efforts to adjust dates, she couldn't join, lamenting, “I feel sad that I could not be part of Aamir’s Lagaan.”

 Personal Account

Married to producer-director Aditya Chopra, the versatile actor credits the audience for boosting her confidence and shattering ageism barriers. Despite teenage stammering and nervousness, acting became a game-changer. Vowing to work till 80, she chuckles, “I’m not ready to hang up my boots.” Rani, the highest-paid female lead actor in the 2000s, boasts a diverse filmography, from Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998) to Mardani 2 (2019). Collaborating with top Bollywood figures, she hails Shah Rukh Khan as the ‘ultimate romantic hero’ and regards Dilip Kumar as the finest actor, remaining awestruck by his performance in Leader (1964).

Unknown Facts

l As a teenager, Rani would stammer and get nervous

l Learnt Braille and sign language for six before doing the movie Black

l Only female actor in India who has a movie franchise (Mardaani, Mardaani-2)

l She is a History graduate and a trained Odissi dancer