Kangana Ranaut recently opened up about her decision to turn down film offers starring some of Bollywood's biggest names, including Ranbir Kapoor and Akshay Kumar. Known for her strong stance on various issues, Kangana revealed that her choice not to work with these A-lister actors, as well as the Khans—Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan—was a deliberate and conscious one. She explained that this decision was driven by her desire to prove that actresses can carve out successful careers in Bollywood without relying on the industry’s most prominent male stars. ALSO READ: Kangana Ranaut Reveals Industry People Are ‘Jealous’ Of Salman Khan; Actress Says, ‘Logon Ki Aankhon Mein Woh Khatkeinge’
During a candid discussion on a podcast with Raj Shamani, Kangana shared her thoughts on the typical roles offered to women in films led by these top actors. She pointed out that such films often reduce female characters to a handful of scenes and a couple of songs, something she found unappealing. Despite her positive experiences with the Khans, who she noted had always treated her well, the Manikarnika star decided to decline their films because she didn’t want to play a stereotypical role with little substance. She emphasized that her refusal to work with these leading men was a statement of independence and a way to set a precedent for future generations of actresses. ALSO READ: Kangana Ranaut Wants To Direct ‘All Three Khan’s’; Says, ‘Would Love To Show Their Talented Side, Where They Act And Look Good’
Kangana highlighted her belief that success in Bollywood does not depend on working with the industry’s male powerhouses. She firmly stated that no Khan, Kumar, or Kapoor could make an actress successful; rather, it was possible for a woman to achieve top status in the industry on her own terms. By turning down films with these actors, Kangana aimed to challenge the notion that a heroine's success is tied to the presence of a male superstar. She wanted to demonstrate that an actress could be successful independently, without needing to conform to the industry’s usual dynamics.
Kangana also offered advice to newcomers in the industry, suggesting that they should take on any good roles that come their way early in their careers. She advised that activism or making bold career choices should come later when an actor has more control and influence over their work. Throughout her career, Kangana has consistently chosen roles that center on strong female characters. Her films, such as Queen and Tanu Weds Manu, have been game-changers in Bollywood, proving that movies led by female protagonists can be both critically and commercially successful. Additionally, Kangana has taken on projects like Fashion and Thalaivii, where she played complex, central roles without the involvement of A-list male stars.
Looking ahead, Kangana is set to appear in Emergency, a film she is also directing. This project, based on the political Emergency in India during the early 1980s under the rule of Indira Gandhi, sees Kangana portraying the former Prime Minister. With this film, Kangana continues to push boundaries, both as an actress and a filmmaker, reinforcing her belief in the power of strong female-led narratives in Bollywood.
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