Rani Mukerji and Salim Khan were honored with the Raj Kapoor awards at the 62nd Maharashtra State Film Awards ceremony in Mumbai on September 9, recognizing their significant contributions to Indian cinema.
MUMBAI – Actress Rani Mukerji and veteran screenwriter Salim Khan received the esteemed Raj Kapoor awards during the 62nd Maharashtra State Film Awards ceremony held in Mumbai on September 9.
Rani Mukerji was presented with the Raj Kapoor Special Contribution Award by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, with Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar also in attendance.
In her acceptance speech, Rani expressed her profound connection to Maharashtra and Mumbai, referring to the state as her birthplace and the foundation of her career. She described Mumbai as not only her home but also a place that has shaped her identity and provided her with an audience.
“Mumbai has given me an identity, an audience, and a career, while also becoming my home and safe place,” Rani stated. She emphasized that the award would serve as a constant reminder of her bond with the city and the state.
Known for her portrayal of strong female characters, Rani elaborated on her approach to cinema. “I have always silently worked to represent the powerful girls and women of India through cinema that has its heart in the right place,” she said.
She further explained her choice of roles, stating that she is instinctively drawn to characters with compelling stories, journeys, and resilience, particularly those of women who exhibit both courage and flaws, refusing to fade into the background.
“I have never considered cinema merely a profession. For me, cinema is a deep emotion. And Maharashtra is the home of that emotion,” Rani added.
Salim Khan was honored with the Raj Kapoor Lifetime Achievement Award for his extensive contributions to Hindi cinema. His wife, veteran actress Helen, accepted the award on his behalf.
After the ceremony, Helen shared that the award was a significant moment for Salim Khan and expressed her gratitude to those who have continued to support him throughout his career.
She conveyed Salim Khan’s appreciation for the recognition and extended his good wishes to Maharashtra and India. Helen also reassured attendees about his health, describing him as a strong man.
Salim Khan is regarded as one of the most influential screenwriters in Hindi cinema. Alongside Javed Akhtar, he co-wrote several iconic films, including ‘Zanjeer,’ ‘Deewaar,’ ‘Sholay,’ ‘Don,’ ‘Trishul,’ and ‘Dostana,’ which have left a lasting impact on the industry.
According to IANS, the Raj Kapoor awards continue to celebrate the remarkable achievements of individuals in the Indian film industry, honoring those who have made significant contributions to cinema.