‘Harassment Of Art’: Kangana Ranaut Alleges Propaganda Over Calls For Emergency Ban In Punjab

The release of Kangana Ranaut’s much-anticipated political drama, Emergencyhas been halted in parts of Punjab, including Patiala, Amritsar, and Bathinda, due to concerns over potential protests. The decision came after local administration authorities expressed fears about possible disruptions to public order.

A note issued by the film’s production team revealed that authorities in these cities had recommended pausing the screening, citing apprehensions that the film’s narrative could provoke unrest among certain groups. This development comes amid growing tensions over the film’s portrayal of historical events and figures.

Kangana’s Response

Reacting to the situation, Kangana took to X (formerly Twitter) to voice her frustration. “This is complete harassment of art and the artist. From Punjab, many cities are reporting that these people are not allowing Emergency to be screened,” she wrote.

This is complete harassment of art and the artist, from Punjab many cities are reporting that these people are not allowing Emergency to be screened.
I have utmost respect for all religions and after studying and growing up in Chandigarh I have closely observed and followed Sikh…

— Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) January 17, 2025

The actor further addressed the allegations made against the film, stating, “I have the utmost respect for all religions, and after studying and growing up in Chandigarh, I have closely observed and followed the Sikh religion. This is a complete lie and propaganda to tarnish my image and harm my film #Emergency.”

Her remarks followed a letter from Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Harjinder Singh Dhami to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, urging a statewide ban on the film. Sikh organizations, including the SGPC and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), have accused the movie of misrepresenting the community and historical facts.

About the Film

Emergencydirected and produced by Kangana herself, is a biographical political thriller that explores the life and tenure of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, focusing on pivotal events like the Emergency period and Operation Bluestar. Kangana portrays Indira Gandhi, while an ensemble cast includes Anupam Kher as Jayaprakash Narayan, Shreyas Talpade as Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Milind Soman as Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, and Mahima Chaudhry as Pupul Jayakar. The late Satish Kaushik plays Jagjivan Ram.

Despite facing delays, Emergency was finally released in cinemas on January 17. However, the controversy surrounding the film’s portrayal of sensitive topics continues to overshadow its reception, especially in regions like Punjab.

The production team has not announced when the screenings in Patiala, Amritsar, and Bathinda might resume, leaving the film’s fate in these areas uncertain.