Rani Mukerji’s 30-year Bollywood odyssey includes blockbusters and bold choices, but ‘Black’ with Amitabh Bachchan shines brightest. As she commemorates this landmark, the actress vividly recalls the film’s profound impact during a candid exchange with Karan Johar.
Bachchan’s presence was electrifying. ‘Working with him was career alchemy,’ Rani shared. Portraying Debraj Sahai, he delivered daily doses of acting brilliance, akin to a virtuoso mentoring protégés on set.
‘Black’ transcended ordinary filmmaking, emerging as Rani’s most spiritually charged project. The story of a teacher’s devotion to his deaf-blind student gripped her soul. She tearfully remembered the final screening with Bachchan: ‘We collapsed into each other’s arms, sobbing, utterly consumed by emotion.’
To embody Michelle McNally, Rani underwent rigorous training—six months of sign language drills and real-world interactions with those facing hearing and speech challenges. Bhansali orchestrated a set buzzing with innovation, pushing everyone to evolve.
‘Only he can conjure such immersive realms and rebirth talents,’ she lauded. Amidst her film’s successes and setbacks, ‘Black’ emerged as a turning point, blending vulnerability with strength. It continues to inspire, proving cinema’s role in fostering understanding and humanity.