Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut is eagerly anticipating the release of her upcoming film, Emergency, where she stars as former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Recently, the film’s trailer received widespread acclaim.
In a recent appearance on Raj Shamani’s podcast, Ranaut revealed that she has turned down film offers from major Bollywood stars, including the Khans—Aamir, Salman, and Shahrukh—as well as Ranbir Kapoor and Akshay Kumar. She explained her decision, stating that in many films featuring these top actors, female roles often consist of only a few scenes and a song, which she finds limiting.
Ranaut clarified, “I have rejected the films of Khan stars not because of any personal grievances. They have always treated me kindly, and none of them have mistreated me. My refusal was based on the fact that their films often relegate heroines to minimal roles. I want to be an example of a leading actress who is successful on her own terms, without relying on any male stars to validate my career.”
She added, “I want to set an example for future women entering the industry. No Khan, Kumar, or Kapoor can make you successful. Success comes from within. I have turned down offers from Ranbir Kapoor and Akshay Kumar to avoid being part of the prototype where only a hero’s success can elevate a heroine.”
Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency, a political drama, is set to release on September 6, 2024. The film features an ensemble cast including Anupam Kher, Shreyas Talpade, Milind Soman, Mahima Chaudhary, and the late Satish Kaushik. Known for her roles in women-centric films like Queen, Tanu Weds Manu, Fashion, and Thalaivi, Ranaut continues to advocate for strong female representation in cinema.