Fresh Tensions Erupt: Kangana Ranaut Hits Back at Taapsee Pannu Over ‘Upbringing’ Comments
The long-standing, often volatile dynamic between Bollywood actors Taapsee Pannu and Kangana Ranaut has reignited, with the latter lashing out following comments made by Pannu regarding their public feud.
The exchange began during a recent interview with India Today, where Pannu was questioned about the status of her relationship with the Queen actress. The two have been at the center of a public rivalry since 2019, frequently finding themselves on opposite sides of the debate surrounding nepotism and the treatment of "outsiders" in the Hindi film industry.
When asked if the two had managed to make amends, Pannu maintained that they have never had a personal interaction. “I haven’t met her. I didn’t meet her before when these so-called issues started, and I haven’t met her now as well,” she stated. “My opinion on her is reflective of my upbringing and my way of talking, my way of perceiving things and hers… she stands by hers. So, I think that’s enough for everybody to look and decide who comes from where.”
A Heated Response
It did not take long for the remarks to reach Ranaut. Taking to her Instagram Stories, the actress-turned-politician launched a scathing rebuttal, accusing Pannu of crossing a line by bringing her upbringing into the conversation.
"One Sasti copy is out and about with her upcoming B-grade film, but as usual, the only headline point with the media is Kangana Ranaut," she wrote. "Today she crossed all limits, shamelessly ridiculing my upbringing and parents. I think all parents do their best, and I never bring any parents into any argument. But today, I also want to ask her parents why they couldn’t birth someone original like my parents did? Why a cheap sasti copy? I feel sorry for your efforts."
The use of the term "sasti copy" (cheap copy) is a callback to the origins of their feud in 2019, when Ranaut’s sister, Rangoli Chandel, first leveled the insult against Pannu after she praised the trailer for Judgementall Hai Kya without explicitly mentioning Ranaut.
Years of Friction
The animosity intensified in 2020 during the height of the industry-wide nepotism debate. At that time, Ranaut controversially labeled Pannu and actor Swara Bhasker as "B-grade actresses" and "needy outsiders." Pannu countered those claims by arguing that, rather than pitting outsiders against one another, the industry should focus on creating a more equitable system. Despite the public vitriol, Pannu has consistently maintained that she has no interest in participating in a "mudslinging match."
Future Outlook
Outside of the industry drama, Pannu also addressed speculation regarding her potential entry into politics. Clarifying that she has no aspirations in that direction, she told the publication, "I am too honest and vulnerable for this. Also, I want to do a few more films. I am not at all considering joining, and I don’t have the DNA for that." She further emphasized that her public statements on social issues are those of an informed citizen, not a political actor.
As the Kangana Ranaut and Taapsee Pannu saga continues to grab headlines, Pannu remains focused on her upcoming professional commitments. She is set to star in the revenge drama Gandhari, which is scheduled for a Netflix premiere on September 3.
