Highlights:
- Rani Mukerji completes 30 years in the film industry
- She recalls her voice being dubbed in Ghulam
- Karan Johar supported her using her real voice in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai
- Rani credits Karan for shaping her screen identity
- She becomes emotional during the conversation
Actor Rani Mukerji recently became emotional while reflecting on a defining moment from the early days of her career. As she completes 30 years in the film industry and prepares for the release of her upcoming film Mardaani 3, Rani sat down for an intimate conversation with filmmaker and longtime friend Karan Johar. During the discussion, she opened up about a painful experience that once made her question her place in the industry.
Rani recalled working on the 1998 film Ghulam, in which she starred opposite Aamir Khan. During the shoot, she was told that her voice was not suitable for the character and that it would be dubbed by another artist. The decision deeply upset her, even though she understood it was made for the film’s creative needs.
“I was told my voice was not apt for the film,” Rani shared. “It was definitely upsetting, but I couldn’t show it. When you are part of a film, you have to be a team player. Even if there are personal disappointments, they don’t matter if the intention is right for the film.”
In Ghulam, Rani’s voice was dubbed by Mona Ghosh Shetty. While the film was a success, the experience left a lasting impact on the actor, who worried that her distinct voice might hold her back in future roles.
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That fear was eased later the same year when she worked with Karan Johar on Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. Rani became visibly emotional as she thanked Karan for trusting her voice and giving her the confidence she needed early in her career.
“I really owe this to Karan,” she said tearfully. “When we were shooting the trailer of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, you asked me if I had dubbed my voice in my first film and whether I had a problem with it. I said no. You told me, ‘I love your voice.’ I still remember that moment. Because of you, Karan, I could retain my voice.”
Karan Johar responded by expressing his admiration for Rani’s individuality. He said her voice is one of her strongest qualities and a defining part of her legacy as an actor. He also kissed her on the cheek, calling her voice instantly recognizable and deeply connected to her screen presence.
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Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, released in 1998, went on to become a massive box office hit and played a major role in establishing Rani Mukerji as a leading star. It also marked the first time audiences fully experienced her natural voice on screen, something that later became one of her most distinctive traits.
Looking back, Rani’s emotional reflection highlights how a single moment of support can change the course of an actor’s career. As she celebrates three decades in cinema, her journey stands as a reminder of resilience, self-belief, and the importance of mentors who see potential when others hesitate.
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