Bollywood sensation and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament, Kangana Ranaut, has recently shared her aspirations to portray prominent women politicians on the big screen. Following her role as late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in the upcoming movie ‘Emergency,’ Ranaut has expressed interest in depicting other influential female figures in Indian politics.
The Mandi MP has been actively promoting ‘Emergency,’ a biographical political thriller centered around the former Prime Minister who declared a state of emergency from 1975 to 1977.
Never wanted to play Indira Gandhi
Ranaut revealed, “All these women have blessed me. I always thought who has made a film on Rani Laxmibai. But she wanted me to make a film on her (Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi). Even Jayalalithaa (former Tamil Nadu CM) wanted me to work in her biopic (Thalaivii). I think even Indira Gandhi wanted me to play her role on screen. I never wanted to play Indira Gandhi, but I felt like something forced me to do it,” during her appearance on the Aap Ki Adalat show.
However, ‘Emergency’ has sparked controversy, facing backlash from various Sikh groups and not receiving approval from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has called for a ban on the film, citing concerns about potential communal tensions and misinformation, particularly regarding the Sikh community.
The movie is set to release on September 6th, generating anticipation and intrigue among audiences.
‘Would Love to Play Mayawati’
During a TV interview, Kangana Ranaut was asked to choose between West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati for a potential role. Without hesitation, Ranaut expressed her preference to portray Mayawati, the acclaimed Bahujan Samajwadi Party (BSP) chief and four-time chief minister of Uttar Pradesh.
“Nothing is impossible for an actor, but I feel that Mayawati, as a leader, I would love to play her,” she affirmed, highlighting her admiration for the influential political figure.
Kangana is renowned for her bold political statements, often stirring up debates and discussions. While her party, the BJP, has distanced itself from some of her remarks, Ranaut continues to express her views on various socio-political issues.
Political Rows
Prior to her role in ‘Emergency,’ Kangana Ranaut, who secured victory in the Lok Sabha elections 2024 as a BJP candidate from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, has been actively engaged in political discourse.
A staunch supporter of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kangana Ranaut has previously sparked controversies with her opinions on India’s freedom and governance.
During a TV channel summit, Ranaut asserted that the true independence of India was achieved in 2014 when Narendra Modi assumed office as the Prime Minister, rather than in 1947. Her outspoken nature and strong convictions continue to make her a prominent figure in both the entertainment industry and political arena.