In a series of events marked by sharp political rhetoric and cinematic promotion, actor-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut has found herself at the center of an online storm. Social media platforms have become a hotbed of criticism towards Ranaut, who recently promoted her upcoming film “Emergency” right outside the Indian Parliament. This act has provoked a strong reaction from netizens, who are accusing her of misusing her newly acquired status as a Member of Parliament for personal gain.
The controversy erupted following an interaction with the media, during which Ranaut attacked the Opposition while simultaneously plugging the release date of her film. “Those who are carrying the Constitution in Parliament and creating drama, their wrong deeds will be revealed on September 6,” the fiery actress declared, referring to the date her film is set to hit theaters. Ranaut further claimed that she had endured significant “torture and difficulties” while making the film, which is based on a book written by Rajiv Gandhi supplemented with “authentic material by their own family.”
Unsurprisingly, the dual-purpose nature of her address did not sit well with many. A wave of backlash quickly followed on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), where users were quick to call out what they perceived as an improper use of her MP status. One user remarked, “Slipping in a movie promo while attacking an Opposition leader—this is talent.”
Another critic took a more cynical view, stating, “People promoting their movies on the Kapil Sharma show makes sense, but becoming an MP to promote a movie is next level.” The discontent was echoed by another user who commented, “This is what is mockery of democracy… she is out there to promote her film… poor Mandi janta… you deserve better.
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Despite the criticism, Ranaut remains undeterred. The newly elected BJP MP from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, took her oath on the first day of the 18th Lok Sabha, marking a significant milestone in her recently launched political career.
Meanwhile, anticipation for her film “Emergency,” scheduled for release on September 6, continues to build. Addressing the media about the film, Ranaut revealed her inspiration: “I am deeply inspired by William Shakespeare’s Macbeth. The essence of Emergency is the destruction wrought when ambition goes unchecked by moral constraints. It is undoubtedly the most sensational chapter of Indian democracy.” She expressed her eager anticipation for the film’s worldwide release.
“Emergency” marks a significant undertaking for Ranaut, who has both directed and starred in the film. The movie boasts a stellar cast including renowned names such as Anupam Kher, Mahima Chaudhary, Milind Soman, Shreyas Talpade, Vishak Nair, and the late Satish Kaushik in pivotal roles. The film is produced by Zee Studios and Manikarnika Films and aims to bring to life one of India’s most tumultuous political periods. The screenplay and dialogues are credited to Ritesh Shah, and the music is composed by Sanchit Balhara, ensuring that the film capitalizes on both narrative and auditory elements to captivate its audience.
The film’s promotional campaign, however, has mostly been overshadowed by the controversy surrounding Ranaut’s comments and her use of the Parliament as a backdrop for marketing. Critics argue that her actions diminish the sanctity of the institution and divert attention from pressing legislative matters. Nevertheless, her supporters laud her for her bold stance and assert that she is merely utilizing her platform to draw attention to a significant historical recounting.
As the release date of “Emergency” approaches, it remains to be seen whether the public’s focus will remain on the political and ethical questions raised by Ranaut’s actions or shift to the content and artistic merit of her film. In either case, Ranaut has undoubtedly succeeded in seizing the nation’s attention, ensuring that “Emergency” will open under an intense spotlight.
With the debates and discussions showing no sign of abating, both her role as an MP and as a filmmaker continue to intertwine, making Kangana Ranaut a figure of considerable interest in both political and entertainment spheres. As her career unfolds, the dual facets of her public life will likely continue to provoke both admiration and controversy, keeping her firmly in the public eye. Whether she can navigate these turbulent waters while staying true to her ambitions in both arenas will be a saga worth following.
