Kangana Ranaut: Controversial Journey from Bollywood to BJP

The Candidate: Kangana Ranaut, a prominent Bollywood actress known for her outspoken nature and strong opinions, officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in March 2024. She will be contesting as a candidate in the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections. In her first electoral battle, she will be contesting against Congress’ Vikramaditya Singh from Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi.

Before joining BJP, she had been vocal about her support for certain political figures and ideologies associated with the party. Ranaut has often expressed nationalist sentiments and has been critical of certain aspects of the Indian film industry, which has aligned her with some of the narratives of the BJP.

However, her statements and actions have certainly sparked political discussions and speculations, but moving to a political party is seen as a significant move in her life.

Bollywood Career

Kangana made her acting debut in the 2006 thriller film ‘Gangster’, directed by Anurag Basu and got the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut. She gained widespread recognition for her roles in films like ‘Woh Lamhe’ (2006), ‘Fashion’ (2008), and ‘Queen’ (2013), which won her the National Film Award for Best Actress.

Ranaut has portrayed a variety of characters across genres, showcasing her acting prowess in films like ‘Tanu Weds Manu’ in 2011, ‘Tanu Weds Manu Returns’ in 2015, ‘Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi’ in 2019, and Thalaivi in 2021 which was a political drama film based on politician J Jayalalitha. Despite her success, Kangana has been embroiled in controversies within the film industry, openly discussing issues such as nepotism and favoritism.

Controversies

The actor has been vocal about nepotism in Bollywood, alleging that industry insiders promote star kids over talented outsiders. Her public feud with several prominent figures in the industry has stirred controversy and divided opinions. She frequently makes headlines for her outspoken remarks on social and political issues, often drawing criticism and sparking debates.

Political Involvement

Kangana Ranaut has expressed her political views on various occasions, aligning herself with nationalist ideologies and openly supporting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his policies. In 2019, she was appointed as the Brand Ambassador for the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao" campaign in her home state of Himachal Pradesh.

Ranaut has hinted at her interest in entering politics, expressing her admiration for political figures like former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

While Kangana Ranaut's Bollywood career continues to thrive, her outspoken nature and involvement in political discourse have added layers of complexity to her public image, earning her both admiration and criticism.