In recent years, we have seen several Bollywood films that have drawn our attention to characters that are differently-abled or suffer from a certain syndrome and are heroes in their own right. Leading actors have beautifully portrayed these central characters in films like Black (2005), Paa (2009), Guzaarish (2010), Barfi! (2012), Margarita with a Straw (2014) and Hichki (2018). These movies have been appreciated for the sensitive representation of their protagonists’ trials and triumphs. Taking on such a part requires courage and a fair amount of preparation, and Rani Mukerji has two such fine roles to her credit.

On International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the actress who played the specially-abled Michelle McNally in Black and the confident teacher, Naina Mathur, with Tourette Syndrome in Hichki, spoke to BT about her learnings from the parts and the deep impact they had on her. “Black and Hichki contributed a lot in making me a better human being. I am fortunate that I got to do these films and be a part of Sanjay Leela Bhansali (Black) and Siddharth P Malhotra’s (Hichki) cinematic visions. I hope these films managed to spark the right conversations about the need to treat everyone as an equal,” she says.

The actress further says that she was extremely inspired by the grit and inner strength that these characters showed in the harshest of situations. Rani adds, “I learnt about the resolve of people who are determined to triumph, despite the odds stacked against them. Essaying these powerful girls on screen made me a stronger human being. I realised the effort that they had to take for many things that we take for granted.”

Talking about more representation for the differently-abled in films and creating awareness about their needs among people, she shares, “For me, Black and Hichki were emotional experiences that opened my eyes more towards inclusivity for all. We must constantly bring conversations about inclusivity and equality to the fore. We need to do our bit to stop discrimination and stereotyping of individuals like those I have portrayed in these films.”