Ashima Chibber Marks Rani Mukerji’s National Award Win at Novaara, Malad West

When filmmaker Ashima Chibber walked into Novaara, Malad West, the air already carried a sense of pride and celebration. The director of Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway was there for an exclusive media interaction — but this wasn’t just any event. It was a moment to acknowledge and honour a milestone: Rani Mukerji’s National Film Award for Best Actress for her performance in the film.

Based on a real-life case, Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway tells the deeply moving story of an Indian mother’s relentless battle against a foreign legal system to reclaim her children. It’s a narrative steeped in emotion, cultural identity, and the raw truth of motherhood under trial. The film not only struck a chord with audiences but also reaffirmed Ashima’s ability to direct with both sensitivity and conviction.

At the gathering, Ashima spoke candidly about the weight of telling a true story. “When you take on a subject like this, there’s a responsibility that goes beyond the camera. You have to respect the truth, respect the people it’s about, and yet make it cinematic,” she shared. Her words carried the tone of someone who had lived and breathed the narrative long before it reached the screen.

Rani Mukerji’s portrayal of the mother at the heart of the film became the soul of the story. Ashima didn’t hold back in expressing her admiration. “Rani poured her heart and soul into this role,” she said with quiet pride. “Her dedication, vulnerability, and strength brought the story to life in a way that touched millions. This National Award is not just a recognition — it’s a testament to the honesty of her craft.”

The evening at Novaara wasn’t about red carpets or rehearsed speeches. It felt more intimate — a blend of heartfelt exchanges with the media, shared memories from the film’s journey, and reflections on the way cinema can both mirror and move society. For Ashima, the win was a shared victory — one that belonged to her entire crew, the real-life figures behind the story, and the audiences who embraced it.

With Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, Ashima Chibber once again proved that cinema anchored in truth can break through industry noise and leave an indelible mark. As the celebration at Novaara wound down, one thing was clear — some films don’t just tell a story, they start a conversation that refuses to fade.