Kangana Ranaut, the newly elected Member of Parliament from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, on a BJP ticket, has found herself at the center of a social media storm. The acclaimed actress-turned-politician took her oath as a member of the 18th Lok Sabha on Monday but has been embroiled in controversy ever since. The source of the furor is her recent interaction with the media, during which she managed to simultaneously launch a scathing attack on the Opposition and promote her upcoming film, “Emergency.”
The controversy began outside the Parliament, where Ranaut commented, “Those who are carrying the Constitution in Parliament and creating drama, their wrong deeds will be revealed on September 6. I had to face a lot of torture and difficulties during the making of this film. This film is based on a book written by Rajiv Gandhi and authentic material provided by their own family.”
In a viral video, trending under #KanganaRanaut, she continued to criticize the Opposition while subtly shifting the focus to her film’s release date. She remarked that the movie would expose certain unspecified wrongdoings on September 6. This promotion, perceived by many as an inappropriate use of her new political platform, has led to an outpouring of criticism on social media.
Netizens reacted strongly, taking to platforms such as Twitter, or ‘X’ as it is currently rebranded. One user sarcastically noted, “Slipping in a movie promo while attacking an Opposition leader – this is talent.” Another user added, “People promoting their movies on the Kapil Sharma show makes sense, but becoming an MP to promote a movie is next level.” Comments also reflected sentiments of betrayal among some of her constituents. A user commented, “This is what is mockery of democracy… she is out there to promote her film … poor Mandi janta.. you deserve better.”
As the backlash grew online, some of her comments from the statement also gained attention. Ranaut mentioned her deep inspiration from William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” and indicated that the essence of “Emergency” is the unchecked ambition leading to moral and political downfall.
. She emphasized her film is a crucial portrayal of a sensational episode in Indian democracy’s history, scheduled to premiere worldwide on September 6, 2024.
The film “Emergency,” directed and produced by Kangana Ranaut herself, stars renowned actors such as Anupam Kher, Mahima Chaudhary, Milind Soman, Shreyas Talpade, Vishak Nair, and the late Satish Kaushik in noteworthy roles. Produced in collaboration with Zee Studios and Manikarnika Films, it aims to capture the tumultuous political landscape of India during one of its most controversial periods. The screenplay and dialogues are crafted by Ritesh Shah, with music composed by Sanchit Balhara, making “Emergency” a highly anticipated cinematic experience.
Despite the controversy, Ranaut expressed her eagerness for the film’s release in a statement. She conveyed her enduring passion for the project and her hope that it will shed light on an important chapter of Indian history, reflecting both political turmoil and personal strife.
Kangana’s entry into politics was met with mixed reactions from the outset. Her supporters celebrated her as a vocal advocate for change, while critics remained skeptical, questioning her priorities and motivations. This latest promotional tactic has only fueled further debate about the intersection of her artistic and political careers.
As the release date of “Emergency” approaches, close attention will be paid to how Kangana balances her dual roles as a parliamentarian and filmmaker. The scrutiny she’s currently under indicates a larger conversation about the ethical responsibilities of public figures who hold influential positions in both politics and entertainment.
While discussions on social media rage on, Kangana Ranaut continues to command the limelight, for better or worse. Her recent actions have sparked a significant dialogue on the appropriate use of political platforms and the responsibilities of elected officials. This incident serves as a reminder of the thin line public figures tread when navigating multiple influential roles.
With the film’s premiere nearing, Kangana’s journey in politics and cinema promises to be closely monitored. Whether her strategy will resonate positively with a broader audience or continue to invite criticism remains to be seen. With vested stakeholders from both her constituency and the film industry looking on, Kangana’s upcoming months are sure to be rife with challenges and scrutiny in equal measure.
(With inputs from ANI)
