Actress Kangana Ranaut, known for her bold and outspoken personality, is all set for the release of her upcoming film Emergency. The movie dives into one of the most controversial chapters of Indian history—the 21-month period from 1975 to 1977 when then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a state of emergency across the nation.
Kangana, who plays Indira Gandhi in the film, has revealed that she personally invited Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to watch the movie. Speaking about this during an interaction with Indo-Asian News Service (IANS), Kangana shared details of their meeting and how Priyanka responded.
A Chance Encounter in Parliament
Kangana mentioned that she met Priyanka Gandhi at the Parliament. “When I saw her, I told her, ‘You should watch Emergency.’ She was very warm and gracious in her response. She said, ‘Yeah, maybe.’ I hope she takes the time to watch it,” Kangana said.
The actress expressed that Emergency is a balanced portrayal of Indira Gandhi’s life and the controversial decisions taken during her tenure. Kangana emphasized that the film doesn’t aim to sensationalize but rather offers a nuanced depiction of a leader who has left a lasting impact on India’s political history.
Focus on Dignity
Talking about her approach to portraying Indira Gandhi, Kangana revealed that she wanted to steer clear of clichés and unnecessary drama. “When I started researching, I saw that there was so much focus on her personal life—her relationships, her equations with men, and all kinds of sensational stuff. But I didn’t want to go down that road. There’s so much more to her as a leader,” she explained.
Kangana said she was determined to highlight Indira Gandhi’s dignity and strength. “She was a three-time Prime Minister, and that’s no small feat. She was loved and celebrated by many, despite the criticism she faced during the Emergency period. I wanted to bring out that balance.”
Why Emergency Is Important
The movie, set to release on January 17, 2025, promises to shed light on the controversial decisions made during the Emergency, including censorship of the press, mass arrests, and forced sterilizations. Kangana believes the film is not just a story about one leader but also a reflection of the complexities of power and politics.
“Emergency is about a pivotal time in our country’s history. While there were many questionable things that happened, it’s also a story about leadership and resilience,” she said.
A Story Beyond Controversy
Kangana acknowledged that the Emergency period remains a divisive topic in Indian politics. “Some people look back at that time with anger, while others have a different perspective. I’ve tried to present the story with fairness. Indira Gandhi was a complex personality, and I wanted to show that.”
She hopes that viewers, regardless of their political leanings, will appreciate the effort she has put into bringing this story to life. “It’s not just about politics. It’s about a person who had to make tough choices. I think everyone will find something to relate to in the film.”
Will Priyanka Watch the Film?
Whether Priyanka Gandhi will watch the movie remains to be seen. But Kangana is optimistic. “I think Emergency is for everyone, no matter which side of the political spectrum they’re on. I’ve tried to handle the subject with care and respect,” she concluded.
As the release date approaches, all eyes are on Kangana and her ambitious project. Whether the film will spark debates, win hearts, or do both, one thing is certain—it’s already generating a lot of buzz.
Emergency hits theaters on January 17.
