Kangana Ranaut criticizes Sharmila Tagore over ‘Vande Mataram’ remarks

BJP MP and actress Kangana Ranaut has criticized veteran actress Sharmila Tagore following remarks regarding India’s national song, ‘Vande Mataram’. The controversy arose after Tagore suggested that because certain stanzas of the song reference multiple Hindu deities, they might be difficult for monotheistic individuals to embrace. Tagore proposed that only the first two stanzas should be sung to be inclusive of all religious faiths in India.

Ranaut responded via social media, arguing that Tagore’s perspective is “limiting and contrived” for an artist. Ranaut contended that the song should be viewed through the lens of art, metaphor, and its historical role in India’s freedom struggle rather than through a religious framework. She emphasized that references to “Shakti” represent strength and national awakening rather than strictly religious practice.

Ranaut further urged citizens to move beyond a “Hindu-Muslim mindset,” noting that poetic expressions often use symbolism to convey deeper meanings. The debate highlights ongoing discussions regarding the interpretation and performance of the song, which was written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.