Actor-politician Kangana Ranaut and filmmaker Hansal Mehta recently engaged in a public exchange on social media, reigniting discussions about past incidents involving property demolitions and freedom of expression.
The exchange began when Hansal Mehta voiced support for comedian Kunal Kamra, whose performance venue in Mumbai was vandalized and later demolished by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) following his satirical comments about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Mehta condemned the actions against Kamra, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding freedom of expression.
In response, a social media user questioned Mehta’s silence during the 2020 demolition of Kangana Ranaut’s Mumbai office by the BMC, suggesting selective activism. Mehta replied by distinguishing the two incidents, implying that Ranaut’s case involved alleged building violations, whereas Kamra’s situation pertained to an attack on free speech.
Kangana Ranaut reacted strongly to Mehta’s comments, recounting her 2020 experience when the BMC demolished parts of her Bandra property, labeling the action as illegal. She accused Mehta of hypocrisy and spreading misinformation, referring to him as “bitter and stupid.” Ranaut also highlighted that derogatory terms were used against her during that period, and her property was demolished before she could seek legal recourse.
Mehta responded succinctly to Ranaut’s remarks, wishing her well by stating, “Get well soon.”
This online confrontation underscores the complexities surrounding issues of freedom of expression, legal actions, and personal grievances within the Indian entertainment industry.
