Kangana Ranaut, a Hollywood heart-throb and a political hobnob, is known for making politically charged and often controversial remarks. Kangana called the farmers’ protests against farm laws, a “terrorist movement” and accused celebrities like Rihanna and Greta Thunberg of being paid to support the protests.
In 2020, Kangana compared Mumbai to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) during a dispute with the Shiv Sena-led Maharashtra government. This led to a major political clash, and her office in Mumbai was partially demolished by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC.
In 2021, Kangana stirred controversy by suggesting that India’s independence in 1947 was not true freedom but “bheek” (a handout) and that real freedom came in 2014. She also criticized Mahatma Gandhi, which drew widespread condemnation for distorting historical facts.
She often makes statements that appear to promote Hindu nationalism and has been vocal in criticizing the secular fabric of India. Her inflammatory comments about religious minorities and support for hardline Hindutva ideologies have made her a divisive figure.
Kangana Ranaut, a Bollywood heartthrob now a political hobnob to rob the political space left behind by Smriti Irani.
Speculations have been galore that Kangana Ranaut could be eyeing a political role, potentially filling the political vacuum created by Smriti Irani, who transitioned from a television actress to a prominent BJP leader and Union Minister. Kangana’s frequent engagement with political discourse, her strong right-wing leanings, and her proximity to BJP leaders have fuelled such rumours.
However, there has been no clear indication from Kangana or the BJP that she is being groomed to take on Smriti Irani’s political mantle, though Smriti Irani is in hibernation since she lost her Amethi Constituency in the elections held in 2024 to a Congress disciple.
Kangana Ranaut and Smriti Irani are both prominent figures who align themselves with the ideology of the RSS and the BJP, but their approaches to advocacy and political engagement differ significantly.
Smriti Irani advocates for the RSS-BJP ideology in a more formal and structured way. She champions Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision through her work in the government, particularly focusing on education, women’s empowerment, and nationalistic policies. Her criticism of the Congress is more policy-focused and less personal, often cantered around governance issues.
Kangana has become an outspoken supporter of Narendra Modi and the BJP’s nationalist, Hindutva-oriented agenda. She is known for her aggressive rhetoric against the Congress Party, often targeting individual Congress leaders with personal remarks. Her criticisms are frequently inflammatory and confrontational, aligning with the hardline nationalist narrative.
While Smriti Irani criticizes the Congress party, sometimes, her approach remains within the decorum of parliamentary politics, focusing on Congress’s failures during its tenure. Her language tends to be measured, aiming at specific policies and decisions made by the Congress-led UPA government.
Kangana has taken her disdain for Congress to another level, making extreme comments about its leaders and policies. She has called the Congress’s tenure “slave-like governance,” and she often portrays the party as anti-national or corrupt. Her rhetoric is more populist, and her language often blurs the line between personal attacks and ideological disagreements.
As a public figure in government, Smriti Irani promotes the RSS-BJP ideology of cultural nationalism and Hindutva in a manner consistent with her political office. Her advocacy is systematic and includes policy efforts and speeches promoting Hindu culture and the welfare of marginalized communities.
Kangana, on the other hand, has become a vocal spokesperson for Hindutva, often without the restraint that political office demands. She frequently makes controversial statements about minorities and promotes a radical form of Hindu nationalism. Her social media presence reflects strong opinions about preserving Hindu values.
Kangana Ranaut, a Bollywood heartthrob now a political hobnob – Kangana’s rants on Mahatma Gandhi & Lal Bahadur Shastri
In recent statements, Kangana Ranaut made controversial remarks, questioning the reverence given to Mahatma Gandhi as the “Father of the Nation” and suggesting that Lal Bahadur Shastri, the second Prime Minister of India, is the true “son” or “Laal” (meaning “beloved son”) of the nation.
Kangana has claimed that the title “Father of the Nation” for Mahatma Gandhi is exaggerated, arguing that his peaceful approach delayed India’s independence and that he failed to address key issues during the freedom struggle. She also accused Gandhi of compromising with the British and overlooking the needs of revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh.
In contrast, Kangana has praised Lal Bahadur Shastri, calling him the true hero and “son” of the nation. She emphasized Shastri’s simplicity, integrity, and decisive leadership during the 1965 war with Pakistan. By positioning Shastri as a more authentic representative of India’s values, she appears to make a distinction between Gandhi’s legacy and Shastri’s more direct, assertive form of leadership.
Kangana Ranaut, a Bollywood heartthrob now a political hobnob – The political controversies
Kangana Ranaut has been involved in several high-profile controversies, including her clashes with the Mumbai government, legal battles over her studio, and disputes within Bollywood.
In September 2020, Kangana Ranaut’s Mumbai office, which was part of her production house Manikarnika Films, was partially demolished by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
The demolition came shortly after Kangana’s public dispute with the Shiv Sena-led Maharashtra government, particularly after her comments comparing Mumbai to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). These comments angered many, especially members of the Shiv Sena, including Sanjay Raut, who lashed out at her.
Kangana accused the BMC of acting in retaliation, claiming that the demolition was politically motivated and driven by her criticism of the Maharashtra government and Shiv Sena leaders. She suggested that the state government was trying to silence her for speaking out against them.
Kangana moved the Bombay High Court, challenging the BMC’s demolition notice and calling it an “act of vendetta.” In November 2020, the Bombay High Court ruled in her favor, stating that the BMC’s actions were “malafide” (done in bad faith) and “illegal.” The court noted that the BMC had acted hastily and with questionable motives, likely driven by Kangana’s political statements.
Kangana sought compensation for the damages caused during the demolition. The High Court referred the matter to a civil court to determine the quantum of damages. This legal victory further bolstered Kangana’s image as a rebel against powerful political entities, and she portrayed herself as a victim of state-sponsored repression.
Kangana Ranaut, a Bollywood heartthrob now a political hobnob – Her Praise for Narendra Modi & the BJP Government.
Kangana is an ardent supporter of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government, often praising their policies and nationalist vision. She has publicly aligned herself with Modi’s ideology and has become a vocal advocate of the BJP’s agenda. Kangana frequently praises Modi’s leadership, particularly his nationalist policies and economic reforms. She has called him the “chosen one” to lead India and often lauds his decisive governance.
Kangana is a supporter of the BJP’s brand of Hindu nationalism. She has been vocal about her admiration for Modi’s stance on issues like national security, cultural pride, and his government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Kangana has also supported some of the more controversial decisions of the Modi government, including the abrogation of Article 370 in Kashmir, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), and farm laws (before they were repealed).
Kangana has expressed admiration for Modi on a personal level, often calling him a “self-made leader” and drawing parallels between her journey, as an outsider in Bollywood and Modi’s rise in politics from a humble background.
Kangana is highly active on social media, where she uses platforms like X and Instagram to endorse Modi’s initiatives and respond to critics of the government. She positions herself as a defender of Modi’s vision for a strong, self-reliant India and frequently engages with political issues, amplifying the BJP’s messaging.
Kangana Ranaut, a Bollywood heartthrob now a political hobnob – Public Image as a Nationalist Voice.
Kangana has cultivated an image as a champion of Indian nationalism, cultural pride, and Hindu values. By aligning herself with the BJP’s political ideology, she has positioned herself as a prominent voice in right-wing discourse. This has won her significant support among nationalists, Hindu traditionalists, and pro-BJP circles.
Her frequent commentary on political matters, such as national security, religious identity, and India’s cultural heritage, has made her a regular figure in the political discourse. Kangana’s statements resonate with a section of the Indian populace that supports Narendra Modi’s vision for a “New India.” This has increased her influence among right-wing political sympathizers.
Kangana Ranaut, a Bollywood heartthrob now a political hobnob – Close ties with the BJP Leadership
Kangana’s unwavering support for Modi and his government has earned her goodwill within BJP circles. While she is not a political leader, her public endorsements of Modi’s policies, such as the abrogation of Article 370 and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), have placed her in a favourable light with BJP leaders.
While she is not directly involved in formal politics, there are rumours that she could be eyeing a future political role, possibly with BJP backing. BJP leaders have occasionally praised her for standing up for nationalist values and for speaking out against what they see as “anti-national elements.”
Access to Political Spaces
Kangana has gained access to certain political spaces, where she is invited to speak on national issues. This is a political dividend in terms of visibility and influence. Kangana has appeared at public events alongside politicians, giving her greater visibility in the political arena. Her presence at certain nationalist events or discussions centered around Hindutva ideology showcases her growing political influence.
Social Media Power
Kangana uses social media to promote her views, and her direct endorsement of Modi and the BJP has further expanded her reach. This level of influence helps her amplify the political narratives she supports. By praising government initiatives and attacking the opposition, particularly the Congress, she has become an informal advocate for the BJP on social media. Kangana’s posts often align with BJP’s political messaging, which helps her remain relevant in political discussions even without holding any office.
Possible Future Political Role
While Kangana hasn’t confirmed any political aspirations, her ongoing involvement in political debates, coupled with her closeness to BJP and right-wing ideologies, has led to speculation that she might be groomed for a formal political role in the future. Her vocal support for BJP policies and attacks on Congress ideologies might pave the way for a more active political career down the line.
There have been rumours and suggestions from political analysts that she could follow in the footsteps of leaders like Smriti Irani, who transitioned from the entertainment industry to a successful political career. Kangana’s firebrand nationalism and right-wing leanings made her an MP from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh in 2024. Her future would depend upon the continuance of Narendra Modi as Prime Minster.
Kangana Ranaut, a Bollywood heartthrob now a political hobnob – Criticism of Congress and Opposition
Kangana’s frequent and aggressive criticism of the Congress party, as well as other opposition leaders, serves as a political dividend, aligning her more strongly with the BJP critique of the opposition. Her public attacks on the Gandhi family, Congress policies, and her portrayal of Indira Gandhi in her upcoming film Emergency have strengthened her as a BJP-leaning public figure. Kangana’s criticism helps reinforce the BJP’s anti-Congress narrative, positioning her as a key figure in undermining the opposition’s legitimacy in the public eye.
Support from Pro-BJP Media Outlets
Kangana’s support for the BJP has earned her favourable coverage from right-leaning media outlets. Many news channels and platforms that support the government and its policies often provide Kangana with a platform to voice her opinions. Her political leanings have helped her secure more airtime on media channels that endorse her nationalist stance, ensuring that her views reach a wide audience.
While Kangana has not yet transitioned into formal politics, her strong association with BJP ideologies, endorsement of Narendra Modi, and vocal criticism of Congress have earned her political dividends in the form of increased influence, public support from nationalist factions, and favourable media coverage. These factors position her as a significant figure in political discourse, with the potential for an eventual political role should she choose to pursue it.
Kangana Ranaut, a Bollywood heartthrob now a political hobnob – The end Remarks
Kangana continues her tirades with her strong opinions, often courting controversy through her statements and cinematic endeavours. Her recent political and historical comments, especially about Gandhi and Shastri, fit into a larger pattern of challenging established historical figures while promoting alternative narratives more in line with her ideological leanings.
Kangana’s political and Bollywood controversies have solidified her image as a fearless, outspoken personality who challenges both political and entertainment establishments. Her legal battles over her studio, her feuds with Bollywood insiders, and her vocal support for Narendra Modi have made her a polarizing figure. While she enjoys considerable public support from certain sections, she has also been criticized for her confrontational and sometimes inflammatory rhetoric.
Kangana Ranaut has had a career filled with significant highs and some notable lows. From her beginnings as a struggling actress to becoming one of Bollywood’s most acclaimed and outspoken stars, her journey has been marked by both critical success and controversies, even after she was elected a Member of Parliament in 2024 from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh.