During a recent conversation with India Today Kangana Ranaut expressed her dissatisfaction regarding how women are treated in the film industry, particularly about the Hema Committee's findings on sexual exploitation and discrimination within Malayalam cinema. The actress known for vocal support of gender equality in the field shared her disappointment over the lack of attention given to her concerns.
Kangana expressed her dissatisfaction with the success of movies that glorify violence, especially towards women. She also criticized female actors who engage in item songs, holding them accountable for the sexualization of young women in the film industry.
“I have been talking about these issues for a long time, but no one took notice,” Kangana said In response to a question regarding the existence of rape culture within the Kerala film industry and its reflection on the industry at large she replied, “It is a hopeless place. I have put everything at stake—from my career to my choices. I have two cases on me. I started the MeToo movement, which didn’t go anywhere. I fought for pay parity and rejected Khan, Kapoor, and Kumar films, but these women attacked me.”
Kangana mentioned her work in promoting screenwriting that considers gender perspectives. She reminisced about her guest spot on Satyamev Jayate with Aamir Khan ten years ago when she voiced similar worries regarding how women are depicted in the industry and how it perpetuates a culture.
She expressed her discontent with the women in the industry saying, "I am very disappointed in girls who promote item numbers and don’t take onus for the sexualization of women. I am also disappointed in those who don't support other women's work and who question my battles. Am I fighting for myself? I’ve only lost opportunities, money, and brands!”
Although facing criticism, Kangana highlighted that her activism has contributed to her personal development. However, the transformations she hoped to see in the industry still seem out of reach.
Kangana is set to appear in her new movie Emergency playing the role of Indira Gandhi, a former Prime Minister. She directed and wrote the film and stars alongside a talented cast that includes Anupam Kher, Mahima Chaudhary, Milind Soman, Shreyas Talpade, Vishak Nair and the late Satish Kaushik. The movie is scheduled to hit theaters on September 6.