December 26, 2017
Rani Mukerji, who plays a school teacher in upcoming movie
'Hichki', revealed that she drew inspiration from her real-life school teachers,
who impacted her life and thoughts in her growing-up years.
Talking about
the revelation, Rani confirmed it and said, "We had many inspiring teachers in
my school (Maneckji Cooper, Juhu, Mumbai). Mrs. Vakil, our Geography teacher,
used to teach us in such a crystal-clear manner, that we wouldn't need to study
once we went home. Mrs. Dadarkar, our History and Literature teacher was
excellent. She would spend time with students, and teach us Julius Caesar in a
manner that brought the story alive. She made us live a story like it was
happening in front of our eyes."
She further added, "Our teachers were
very friendly, informal and wouldn't heap a lot of academic pressure on us. We
had toppers, students who did well, like me, and students who would barely
manage passing marks. But our teachers were never harsh on those who would fail
or struggle to pass. I remember growing up in a manner where we were never
forced to chase high academic scores all the time. We had fun studying. This
realization of mine, I have tried to reflect in Hichki through my character."
According to the actress, the biggest lesson the teachers and parents can
take today is that students should be able to express themselves freely at
school.
"They should be able to fly. School is the only space where one
can express oneself freely, for once a child grows up, pressures of building a
career and earning money will automatically emerge. It's very important to let
children explore and figure out what they are good at - it could be academics,
sports or the field of art. As school years are the most formative ones, it's
important for parents and teachers to let children fly at this stage. I learnt
this from my teachers and I thank them for shaping me up the way I have today.
This was invaluable learning for me and my character in Hichki will live this
philosophy, this learning," noted Mukerji.
'Hichki' is about the positive
attitude of turning one's weakness into a strength, and taking challenges
head-on. Rani plays a common girl, who has an extraordinary situation and she
stares down at the challenge and never backs off when others would mostly
crumble.
Directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra and produced by Maneesh
Sharma, 'Hichki' will release across India on February 23.(ANI)