La Trobe University Confers Honorary Doctor of Letters on Rani Mukerji for Cinematic Excellence and Global Advocacy
Bollywood icon Rani Mukerji has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters by Australia’s La Trobe University during the 2026 Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. She becomes only the second Indian film personality to receive this prestigious recognition, following Shah Rukh Khan, for her nearly 30-year contribution to cinema and humanitarian causes.
RMN Stars Bollywood Desk
New Delhi | August 15, 2026
A Milestone for Indian Cinema in Australia
In a significant cultural milestone, Bollywood superstar Rani Mukerji was conferred with an Honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) by La Trobe University on August 14,. The ceremony took place at Federation Square as part of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2026, a festival celebrating its run from August 13 to 23.
This high accolade recognizes Mukerji’s three-decade career in the Indian film industry and her tireless advocacy for women, children, and marginalized communities. With this honor, she joins Shah Rukh Khan as one of the only two Indian film personalities to receive the university’s highest honor; Khan was previously recognized in 2019.
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A Legacy of Social Impact: La Trobe University Chancellor, The Honourable John Brumby AO, noted that Mukerji’s work has “transcended entertainment” to spark vital global conversations regarding social justice, equality, and inclusion. Her filmography, including acclaimed titles such as Black, No One Killed Jessica, Hichki, the Mardaani franchise, and Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, has been instrumental in highlighting issues like gender justice and disability inclusion.
“Films can change hearts before they change minds.” – Rani Mukerji on the transformative power of Indian cinema.
The Artist as a Cultural Ambassador: Accepting the degree, Mukerji described the moment as one of the most “humbling” of her life. She emphasized her role as a risk-taker who chooses stories that inspire and empower.
“For someone who has always believed that films can change hearts before they change minds, this recognition means more than I can possibly express,” she stated, adding that artists serve as ambassadors of their culture. She dedicated the honor to India and the global audience, viewing the doctorate as a new chapter in the story of cinema building friendships between nations.
IFFM Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange added that the recognition celebrates the power of storytelling to bridge cultural divides. Mukerji concluded her speech with gratitude, noting her pride in seeing Indian cinema celebrated on the international stage in Australia.
