Blend witty, outspoken and edgy and there you have Kangana Ranaut. Speaking on the topic ‘My Idea, My Belief – Why I Inspire’ at the Confederation of Indian Industry’s (CII) 12th Young Indians Annual National Summit, Kangana spoke about her journey, role model and her perception of marriage.
“I think my journey has been quite special because it has been the most unexpected one,” said the actor who has bagged the best actress award for Tanu Weds Manu Returns in the 63rd National Film Awards. She added, “I followed my instincts, and always managed to find a silver lining.” The actress initially parried away the question on having a troubled teenage life but was quick to acknowledge her independent self who did not take refuge in her father’s advice. “He still looks at me doubtfully and wonders do I know what am I doing in life?” Kangana grinned.
On what it takes to crack the superstar code in Hindi film industry, Kangana remarked, “The definition of a superstar in today’s society is somebody who can excite or enthral and get people crazy with his or her quirks. It is really disheartening that today’s generation really do not have nice role models. It is a result of undue hype that is created to project the good-for-nothings as superstars. And I am in no race to be a superstar. Superstars don’t last, real people do,” said Kangana.
Kangana expressed that her she looks at her journey like a role model. “Everyone has a different map to follow. I have certain expectations from myself. I see myself as somebody who can actually go beyond what is expected of her. And that is my role model. That’s exactly the woman who I want to be.”
Responding to questions about her contemporaries heading towards Hollywood, the actress quoted facts and figures suggesting Chinese film industry will take over Hollywood in a couple of years.
“Hollywood is surviving because of its international territories – mostly Asia and the increased attention to appeal to Asian masses. The Indian film industry hasn’t reached its peak yet. So the next 10 years are going to be extremely exciting for us,” said Kangana.
As the conversation shifted to her perception of marriage she laughed at the idea of her advising on the proposition of marriage. “In today’s world, marriages have a very different meaning where a modern woman does not depend on a man for money or social standing. Women are pretty independent and they seek a companion who treats them nicely.”
Taking a scrupulous dig at her recent tug-of-war on legal notices with her alleged ex-flame, she said, “I don’t understand the legality of this whole process. If a relationship doesn’t work, why do people have to go to lawyers? That’s a bit unfair. Everything’s changing and you can grow out of a relationship.”
Her impish quip, “I have a knack of choosing wrong people” had the audience burst into laughter.
