6 July 2023,Mumbai: Renowned filmmaker Ketan Mehta recently spoke out in a candid interview, expressing his disappointment and criticism towards the 2019 film “Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi,” starring Kangana Ranaut. Mehta, who initially planned to collaborate with Ranaut on a film about the legendary Queen of Jhansi, Rani Lakshmi Bai, revealed how the final product deviated significantly from his original vision.
Mehta’s association with the project dates back to 2015, following the release of his film “Manjhi – The Mountain Man,” featuring Nawazuddin Siddiqui. He had announced his intention to create a film centred around Rani Lakshmi Bai, with Kangana Ranaut in the lead role. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, the collaboration did not materialise. Subsequently, Ranaut went on to star in and co-direct “Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi.”
Reflecting on the turn of events, Ketan Mehta expressed his disappointment, claiming that the final film was a far cry from what he had initially envisioned. According to Mehta, the changes made to the script were extensive, resulting in a product that he deemed “pathetic.” The filmmaker had intended to create an international co-production that would shed light on the British Generals’ relentless pursuit of capturing Rani Lakshmi Bai. He emphasised that his version aimed for a more balanced perspective, focusing on historical accuracy rather than leaning towards jingoism and nationalism.
In an interview , Mehta lamented, “It was entirely unfortunate and heart-breaking. A lot of work had gone into it. What finally was made was pathetic, to say the least. The entire script was changed. My project was an international co-production. It was about British Generals’ obsession with capturing the Rani of Jhansi. It was more balanced. Manikarnika – The Queen Of Jhansi became jingoistic and nationalistic.”
“Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi” featured Kangana Ranaut in the titular role, alongside Ankita Lokhande, Suresh Oberoi, Atul Kulkarni, and Danny Denzongpa. The film depicted the life of Rani Lakshmi Bai, who led Jhansi’s army during the Indian Rebellion of 1857 against the East India Company. Ankita Lokhande portrayed the character of Jhalkari Bai, a warrior and aide to the queen.
Despite the creative differences with Mehta, Kangana Ranaut has been actively involved in several upcoming projects. She is currently working on the film “Emergency,” where she not only stars in the lead role as Indira Gandhi but also serves as the producer and director. The movie also features notable actors such as Anupam Kher, Shreyas Talpade, Mahima Chaudhary, Milind Soman, and the late Satish Kaushik.
Additionally, Kangana Ranaut is set to appear in P Vasu’s “Chandramukhi 2” and the action film “Tejas,” directed by Sarvesh Mewara. “Tejas” is scheduled for release on October 20.
By: Tanya Chantola