Is on a tour to her home constituency Mandi in Himachal Pradesh
MANDI: Himachal Pradesh BJP MP and Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut’s recent tour to her home constituency Mandi was meant to connect with the people.
Instead, it has sparked widespread criticism and disappointment, thanks to a series of viral videos where her conduct has been allegedly labeled as dismissive and out of touch with local sensibilities.
In one of the widely shared clips, Kangana is seen arriving at a cultural event where members of the local women’s self-help groups approached her with garlands, a deeply rooted tradition of welcome in Himachal Pradesh.
As they came forward to honour her, she physically pushed their hands back and refused to let the garlands be placed around her neck. Even those that had already touched her shoulders were promptly removed. The reaction stunned many and left the women visibly embarrassed.
Following the incident, at subsequent programmes, organisers reportedly stopped offering garlands altogether and switched to presenting flower sticks instead. It was clear: the celebrity MP did not want to be touched or adorned, no matter how symbolic or respectful the gesture.
Children turned away too
Another video has added fuel to the fire. During a ceremony in Sarkaghat, a group of young girls approached Kangana to apply a simple tilak on her forehead, a culturally significant sign of respect and welcome.
But she refused even this gesture. What drew sharper public attention was that local MLA Dilip Thakur was also seen requesting her to allow the girls to proceed. She still declined.
These refusals may seem small in isolation, but in a region where traditions are deeply respected and emotional warmth is part of public life, such dismissive behaviour does not go unnoticed.
Larger question: When will celebrity MPs learn to walk with people?
This controversy has reignited a long-standing debate: Why are film stars parachuted into politics, often at the cost of ignoring dedicated party workers who have spent years on the ground, working for the people?
“Parties see glamour and instant vote-catching power in celebrities. But when those very stars walk into the public sphere still wrapped in their entitlement and ego, it is the people who are asked to adjust, not the celebrity,” said a Mandi resident.
Another resident said that Kangana may be a star, but she was now also a Member of Parliament. “And that role demands more than just appearances at events — it demands connection, humility and respect for the very people who sent her to power…. The people always adjust, but she never does. Maybe it’s time we stop adjusting,” he said.
Munish Sood
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