Actress Kangana Ranaut, BJP’s Lok Sabha candidate from Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi, referred to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose as independent India’s first Prime Minister during a press event, sparking widespread discussion. The video clip of her statement was circulated on social media by Congress leader BV Srinivas, AAP Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal, and others. Ranaut had recently criticized the Congress for making objectionable remarks about her, attributing it to their “sick mentality” rooted in their family background and English education. Addressing BJP workers’ gatherings in Sundernagar assembly constituency and Mandi town, Ranaut accused the Congress of being unable to accept her candidacy from the largest political party, leading them to resort to derogatory remarks.
She recounted facing intimidation and property damage due to her affiliation with the BJP but emphasized her resilience, praising the courage of Himachal Pradesh’s women. Describing the upcoming elections as a “dharm yuddh” (a righteous battle), she expressed confidence that the state’s women would support her candidacy, thereby bolstering Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. Ranaut reiterated her belief that India truly gained independence after Modi assumed office in 2014 and urged party workers to strive for the ambitious goal of “400 paar” (winning over 400 seats in the Lok Sabha elections).
Emphasizing her commitment to serving the people, Ranaut underscored her transition from a successful film career to politics, expressing confidence in her ability to succeed in both domains. She called upon local workers from Sundernagar and Sarkaghat to manage election affairs, highlighting her roots in the region by conversing in the local Mandyali dialect