Rani Mukerji Gets Emotional Recalling Voice Dubbing Experience in Ghulam
Bollywood actress Rani Mukerji joined filmmaker Karan Johar for an interactive session on Thursday, reflecting on her remarkable 30-year journey in Indian cinema. The conversation took a deeply emotional turn as she revisited her early days in the industry, when her distinctive husky voice faced skepticism from filmmakers.
The Ghulam Dubbing Decision That Left Rani Upset
During the session, Rani revealed a poignant memory from her film Ghulam, where her voice was ultimately dubbed. She explained that Aamir Khan, her co-star in the movie, had to deliver the difficult news that her own voice wouldn't be used in the final cut.
"As a newcomer, you don't have much of a choice," Rani recalled. "It was a big thing for me to do a film opposite Aamir because he was one of the superstars there. So I learned later from Vikram, who's my director, that actually it was a decision taken by probably Vikram, Mukesh ji and Aamir, but they made Aamir become the bad cop."
Aamir Khan's Logical Explanation Using Sridevi's Example
Rani shared how Aamir Khan approached the sensitive situation with logic and empathy. "Aamir kind of explained to me that for films, we have to sacrifice certain things for the best of the film. Probably your voice is not apt for the character," she said.
The veteran actor then asked Rani about her favorite actress. When she named the legendary Sridevi, Aamir revealed that even the iconic star's voice had been dubbed in several films during her career.
"He gave me an example how Sridevi's voice was dubbed in a lot of her films. But it didn't stop her from being the star that she became. So with that logic, he said, you must surrender to whatever is best for the film," Rani recounted.
Rani's Emotional Response and Professional Attitude
Despite understanding the reasoning, Rani admitted the decision was personally difficult to accept. "It was a little upsetting for me. But obviously I couldn't show the fact that I was upset because you need to be a team player whenever you're part of a film...Even if there are personal disappointments, it doesn't matter as long as the intent is true for the film," she added.
Karan Johar's Support That Changed Everything
The conversation then shifted to how Karan Johar played a crucial role in helping Rani retain her natural voice in subsequent projects. Becoming emotional during this recollection, Rani shared a heartwarming moment from the shooting of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.
"I remember that day we were shooting for the teaser. Karan came up to me and said, 'Rani, are the people dubbing your voice in Ghulam?' And I said yes...He said, 'Did you dub your first film?' I said of course I dubbed my first film. So he said, 'I love your voice and you will dub for my film.' And thanks to you, Karan, I was able to retain my voice," Rani expressed with gratitude.
Looking Ahead to Mardaani 3
As the session concluded, attention turned to Rani's upcoming projects. The actress is currently preparing for the release of Mardaani 3, the latest installment in her successful action-thriller franchise.
Written by Aayush Gupta and directed by Abhiraj Minwala, Mardaani 3 is produced by Aditya Chopra under the prestigious banner of Yash Raj Films. The highly anticipated film is scheduled to hit theatres across India on January 30, 2026, marking another significant milestone in Rani Mukerji's illustrious career.
This emotional reflection during her session with Karan Johar not only highlighted the challenges Rani faced early in her career but also showcased the supportive relationships that helped shape her journey in Bollywood.
