On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the beloved Bollywood classic, “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai,” Rani Mukerji, the talented actress who portrayed the character Tina, reflects on her journey in the industry with a sense of surreal nostalgia. As she contemplates the film’s enduring legacy, she’s quick to express her deep affection for the cast and crew, particularly because they played such a pivotal role in the early stages of her career.
Rani Mukerji recalls the Kuch Kuch Hota Hai filming days
Rani fondly reminisces about her collaboration with her co-stars, Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, crediting the enchanting on-screen chemistry to Karan Johar‘s masterful script. In her view, actors find their muse in the words they bring to life, and Karan’s script was nothing short of magical. It effortlessly wove together the hearts of the characters and gave life to their emotions. “Actors perform to the written material,” she asserts, and it’s clear that Karan’s script provided the foundation for the film’s enduring charm.
Recalling one of her initial conversations with Karan, Mukerji reveals the doubts that crossed her mind. She wondered if the audience would accept Shah Rukh’s character, Rahul, falling in love with Tina, given his iconic role in “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge.” However, Karan’s reassuring words set her mind at ease, and she recalls him saying, “You don’t worry about it, as long as you are doing the film, you leave that worry to me.” This reassurance, coupled with Karan’s clear and vivid narration of the script, cemented her belief in the project. It was these personal connections and her trust in Karan that led her to become a part of the film, a decision she’s cherished over the years.
Rani also offers a delightful behind-the-scenes anecdote from the shoot in Scotland, emphasizing Karan Johar’s keen attention to detail, particularly in costume design. The entire cast and crew, along with technicians, traveled together in a bus, stopping at picturesque locations for shoots.
Rani’s orange saree was a central part of a honeymoon scene, and here Karan’s perfectionism came to the fore. He realized that she wasn’t wearing a mangalsutra, a critical accessory for the scene that was supposed to occur after the wedding. Without missing a beat, he asked designer Manish Malhotra for her mangalsutra.
When Manish couldn’t provide it, Karan sprinted to the bus, where Mukerji’s mother was napping, and asked her for the prized piece of jewelry. Rani chuckles, “I wore my Mum’s mangalsutra and gave the shot. Karan only realized the truth when my mother came huffing and puffing from the bus asking Manish, ‘Where is my mangalsutra? Give my mangalsutra back.'”
The actress then fondly recalls her favorite dialogue from the film, “Pyaar Dosti Hai,” which encapsulates the movie’s core message that love is an extension of friendship. This connection between love and friendship resonated deeply with the audience. “When Rahul said ‘Jisse mai pyaar karunga, vo meri sabse achi dost bhi honi chahiye,’ people could feel it,” she reflects. The film’s soul-stirring songs, including the title track and “Koi Mil Gaya,” further endeared it to fans.
Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’s timeless message of love as friendship has continued to captivate audiences over the years. Mukerji notes the film’s enduring impact and how it brings joy to people even two and a half decades after its release. She acknowledges that the film’s theme was not only fresh for its time but remains relevant to subsequent generations who appreciate the authenticity of its concept.
As she looks back on her 25-year journey in the film industry, Rani Mukerji’s connection to “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” remains an integral part of her life. The close-knit bonds forged on and off the set and the film’s ability to convey the profound connection between love and friendship are testament to its enduring legacy. It’s a film that holds a special place in her heart and continues to touch the hearts of countless fans around the world.
