Rani Mukerji to receive Honorary Doctor of Letters at IFFM

Acclaimed Indian actor and humanitarian Rani Mukerji will be awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters by La Trobe University during the upcoming Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. The special ceremony is scheduled for August 14, 2026, at Federation Square in Melbourne.

The university stated the honor recognizes Mukerji's extraordinary contributions to Indian cinema and her longstanding commitment to social causes supporting women, children, and marginalized communities. In a statement, Mukerji expressed deep humility, calling cinema the greatest teacher in her life's journey. She said she has always believed in the power of storytelling to inspire empathy, spark conversations, and bring about positive change. She added that receiving the honor during the festival, which celebrates Indian cinema on a global stage, makes it especially meaningful.

La Trobe University Chancellor John Brumby praised Mukerji's work, noting that her remarkable body of work has transcended entertainment to spark important conversations around social justice, equality, and inclusion. He said her enduring impact on cinema and unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes make her an exceptional recipient.