Rani Mukerji IFFM 2026: The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) is pleased to announce that renowned actress and philanthropist Rani Mukerji will be awarded the prestigious Honorary Doctorate of Letters (Honorary Doctorate) from La Trobe University during the 2026 festival.
This honor will be given at a special ceremony to be held at Federation Square, Melbourne on 14 August 2026. The honor recognizes Rani Mukherjee’s outstanding contribution to Indian cinema as well as her longstanding social work for women, children and the underprivileged sections of the society.
The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, to be held from 13 to 23 August 2026, has become one of the most prestigious Indian film festivals in the world. The festival brings together the finest talent from Indian cinema, strengthens cultural ties between India and Australia and celebrates films and artists that have left a deep impact on audiences around the world.
In her career spanning nearly three decades, Rani Mukherjee has been one of the most respected and successful actresses of Indian cinema. Through films like Black, No One Killed Jessica, Hichki, Mardaani Series and Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, she has brought important issues like women’s rights, gender equality, inclusion of disabled people into the mainstream and social change on the big screen.
Apart from cinema, Rani has also been supporting many social causes related to children’s health, education and community development. This shows his deep commitment towards the society.
Expressing her happiness on this honour, Rani Mukherjee said, “I am extremely humbled and honored to receive this Honorary Doctor of Letters award from La Trobe University. Cinema has been the greatest teacher of my life. I have always believed that stories have the power to connect people’s hearts, generate new thinking and bring about positive change. Receiving this honor on an international platform like the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne makes it even more special. I am proud of La Trobe University and IFFM. I am deeply grateful to have got the opportunity to be a part of many such inspiring films through which I have shared the stories of struggle, passion and courage of people facing every difficulty. Because of cinema, I have got the opportunity to live many lives. I dedicate this honor to my country and all the people around the world, whose love and faith made me an actress and made my life so beautiful.
The Honorable John Brumby AO, Chancellor of La Trobe University, said, “Rani Mukherjee’s work has never been limited to entertainment. Her films have drawn attention to important topics such as social justice, equality and inclusion. Her outstanding contributions to cinema and her commitment to social service make her an ideal personality for this honour. We are delighted to bestow this honorary degree on her and to welcome her to the La Trobe University family.”
Mitu Bhowmik Lange, Festival Director, Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, said, “The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne always honors artists who have taken Indian cinema to new heights and inspired audiences around the world. Rani Mukherjee is one of the finest actresses of her generation. Every performance of hers has been an example of brilliant acting and powerful storytelling. We are proud that La Trobe University has bestowed upon her this honor on the stage of IFFM. It is a proud moment not only for the festival but for all those who have appreciated Rani Mukherjee’s contribution to Indian cinema over the years.”
The 2026 Indian Film Festival of Melbourne is once again going to be a grand celebration of Indian cinema. The festival will bring together filmmakers, artists and audiences from around the world through film screenings, premieres, exclusive conversations and a host of special events.