Kangana Ranaut invites Priyanka Gandhi to watch 'Emergency,' tells her “You will quite like it”

Kangana Ranaut has invited Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to watch her upcoming film Emergency, where she portrays Priyanka's grandmother, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The invitation was extended during a meeting between the two in Parliament, where Kangana said, “You should watch Emergency.” Priyanka responded, “Yeah, maybe,” with Kangana replying, “You will quite like it.” The film is set against the backdrop of the 1975 Emergency period in India, a time when Indira Gandhi's government imposed a state of emergency, suspending civil liberties and curbing political freedoms.

Kangana, who not only stars as Indira Gandhi but also directs Emergency, has focused on creating a portrayal that is both sensitive and dignified. In interviews, she emphasized her intention to depict Indira Gandhi as a complex political figure rather than sensationalizing her personal life. Kangana avoided delving into Gandhi’s relationships and controversies, instead opting to portray her leadership during one of India’s most politically turbulent periods. The film seeks to provide an in-depth exploration of the decision to declare the Emergency and its ramifications on Indian society.

In preparing for the role, Kangana conducted extensive research into Indira Gandhi’s life and the historical context of the Emergency. She pointed out that much of the discourse around Gandhi has historically centered on her personal relationships, particularly with her family and political associates. Kangana chose to focus on Gandhi's political achievements, stating, “There is so much more to a person.” She aimed to provide a more balanced and respectful portrayal, recognizing that women in leadership roles are often reduced to their relationships with men.

Emergency features a prominent cast, including Anupam Kher and Shreyas Talpade in key roles. The film delves into the political, social, and personal challenges of the time, exploring the events leading up to the Emergency and the key decisions made by Indira Gandhi. It also highlights the reactions of the public and political figures to the Emergency, offering a nuanced perspective on the impacts of this period on Indian democracy and governance.

Directed and written by Kangana Ranaut, Emergency will be released on January 17, 2025, after multiple delays. The film marks Kangana’s directorial debut and showcases her vision of presenting a detailed account of a critical moment in India's history. Alongside Kangana, the film also features performances from Mahima Chaudhary, Milind Soman, Vishak Nair, and the late Satish Kaushik. The film is expected to offer audiences a deep dive into the Emergency era, reflecting on the political and social dynamics that shaped the nation during that time.