Exclusive: Rani In Toronto

Indian moviegoers in Canada's commercial capital went Hadippa over Rani Mukherjee as the curtains went up on Bollywood star's latest movie at the ongoing Toronto International Film Festival. (Pic: NDTV)

The red carpet was flanked by shrieking and howling Rani fans, who thrust their autograph books at Rani and posed for photographs with the actress even as a posse of bhangra dancers in colourful attire swayed to drum beats. (Pic: NDTV)

"I really love the audience in Toronto. It's so involved," Rani said. "I'm nervous, I'm excited and I'm extremely honoured to be here. I have a deep emotional connect with my fans. They have stood by me through my low phase. I owe a lot to them. I hope they enjoy Dil Bole Hadippa as much as we enjoyed making it," said the 31-year-old actress, who is returning to the big screen after a year. (Pic: NDTV)

Dil Bole Hadippa is first full-on Bollywood masala film to have its world premiere in North America's top cinema events. (Pic: NDTV)

Rani Mukherjee waving to fans in Toronto (Pic: NDTV)

Rani got into the swing of things and let out shrill whoop of joy in unison with the audience. She said she was confident that the film would have a special appeal for audiences here because it is set entirely in Punjab. (Pic: NDTV)

"Punjabis have a strong presence in Toronto. I am sure they will relate to Dil Bole Hadippa quite easily," the actress said. (Pic: NDTV)

The film's director, debutant Anurag Singh, said: "Dil Bole Hadippa reflects what we Indians are like. We are colourful, loud, noisy and all heart." (Pic: NDTV)