Kangana Ranaut, known for her bold choices and outspoken nature, is currently in the spotlight for her upcoming film ‘Emergency.’ The film has created a buzz, with Kangana portraying the role of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. As she promotes the movie, she has been candid about her experiences in the industry, including turning down some significant projects and item numbers that many other actresses would have considered career-defining.
Kangana Ranaut Turns Down Priyanka Chopra’s Item Number in ‘Ram Leela’
In a recent interview with Navbharat Times, Kangana revealed that she was approached by acclaimed director Sanjay Leela Bhansali to perform an item number in the 2013 film ‘Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela,’ starring Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh. The song was eventually performed by Priyanka Chopra and became quite popular. However, Kangana, known for her selective nature when it comes to film roles, chose to decline the offer.
She shared, “Sanjay Leela Bhansali ji personally called me for the item number in ‘Ram Leela.’ But I turned it down. It doesn’t matter if it’s Bhansali or anyone else, I cannot do an item number. People called me crazy for rejecting such an opportunity, but for me, it’s important how we portray women on screen.”
Kangana’s Views on Item Numbers and Their Impact on Society
Kangana’s decision to reject the item number was not just a personal choice but also a statement against the objectification of women in films. She spoke about the larger implications of such portrayals, expressing her concerns over the messages these songs send to the audience.
Reflecting on her appearance on Aamir Khan’s show ‘Satyamev Jayate’ nearly a decade ago, Kangana pointed out that the same issues they discussed then are still relevant today. She questioned the kind of messaging that item numbers like “Tandoori Murgi Hoon Yaar” and “Gutka Le Saiyan Alcohol Se” convey to the audience, particularly young boys. “What are we telling through songs like these? The way some films glorify violence and objectification, it’s alarming. You see boys cheering, whistling, and some even carrying that aggression into real life, and no one seems to be addressing it,” she said.
Rejecting Big Banner Films: Salman Khan’s ‘Sultan’ and Ranbir Kapoor’s ‘Sanju’
Kangana’s refusal of high-profile roles doesn’t end with item numbers. In the same interview, she mentioned that she has previously turned down lead roles in blockbuster films such as Salman Khan’s ‘Sultan’ and ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan,’ as well as Ranbir Kapoor’s ‘Sanju.’
These films, which went on to become massive hits, were offered to Kangana at various stages of her career. However, she chose to pass on them, believing that they did not align with her vision of the kind of work she wanted to do. “Such films should be condemned if they glorify what should be criticized. The media often celebrates the success of these films, but it’s essential to critique them as well,” Kangana remarked.
Kangana’s Commitment to Meaningful Cinema
Kangana’s choices reflect her commitment to being part of films that resonate with her beliefs and contribute positively to society. Over the years, she has become known for her roles in films like ‘Queen,’ ‘Tanu Weds Manu,’ and ‘Manikarnika,’ where she portrayed strong, independent women.
Her current project, ‘Emergency,’ is yet another example of her dedication to meaningful cinema. The film, which is based on the events of the Emergency period in India, is expected to showcase a different side of Kangana’s versatility as an actress.
The Media’s Role in Shaping Public Perception
Kangana also emphasized the media’s role in shaping public perception. She believes that the media should be more responsible in how it portrays and discusses films that may have a negative influence on society. “The media is also responsible for the appreciation that such people get. They should be condemned, they should be criticized,” she asserted.
As Kangana continues to speak out about the issues she sees in the industry, it’s clear that her influence extends beyond just her film roles. She’s using her platform to challenge norms and encourage more thoughtful storytelling in Bollywood.
