Kangana Ranaut has encountered substantial financial setbacks due to the postponed release of her highly anticipated film, Emergency. In a recent interview, she disclosed that these delays compelled her to make challenging financial choices, including the sale of her cherished property—a bungalow in Mumbai.
During the interview, Kangana discussed her financial commitment to Emergency, revealing that her personal savings were invested in the film’s production. She stated, “My film was about to release, so I had invested my personal savings in it. Now, what could I do if it couldn’t be released? Property comes in handy during such times, so I had to take the decision to sell the bungalow.” This situation has placed her in a difficult financial position, necessitating the sale of a significant asset.
The bungalow Kangana sold was situated in the upscale Pali Hill area of Bandra, Mumbai. This property not only held considerable real estate value but also served as the office for her production company, Manikarnika Films. She sold it to Coimbatore-based Shweta Bathija for Rs 32 crores, making a profit of Rs 12 crores, having originally purchased the property for Rs 20 crores in 2017.
The property has previously garnered media attention; in September 2020, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) partially demolished the bungalow due to unauthorized construction. Despite the controversies surrounding it, the prime location in Pali Hill contributed to its sale value.
In addition to her financial difficulties, Kangana’s film Emergency has faced censorship and legal challenges. The film, featuring Kangana alongside actors like Shreyas Talpade and Anupam Kher, recently obtained a U/A certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) after several cuts and revisions. Initially, the CBFC objected to numerous scenes, which delayed the film’s release that was originally set for September 6, 2024.
Kangana and Zee Studio responded to the CBFC’s objections by filing a petition in the Bombay High Court, contesting the board’s decision to withhold the film’s certification just four days before its planned release. The petition highlighted the importance of freedom of expression, arguing that it should not be restricted based on potential disruptions or public unrest.
During a recent hearing, Justices BP Colabawala and Firdosh Puniwala criticized the CBFC’s approach, asserting that the board cannot withhold certification merely due to concerns about possible law-and-order issues. The court questioned the assumption that the Indian public would be easily influenced by the film’s content. The judges urged the CBFC to reach a conclusive decision by September 25, with the next hearing scheduled for that date.
One of the main sources of controversy surrounding the film is the objection raised by the Sikh community. Several petitions have been filed across various states, alleging that the film depicts Sikhs negatively. These claims have added to the legal and censorship challenges faced by Emergency, further delaying its release.
However, the court appears to support creative freedom, with justices encouraging the CBFC to resolve the matter swiftly. The situation continues to evolve, with Kangana and her team awaiting the board’s final decision.
Despite the financial strain and ongoing legal hurdles, Kangana remains dedicated to Emergency, a project in which she has heavily invested both financially and creatively. The film is anticipated to be released in the coming weeks, contingent upon the resolution of these challenges.
As Kangana navigates this challenging period, she has shown resilience, making tough decisions to safeguard her investment and advance her career in the film industry. Fans and critics are eagerly awaiting the release of Emergency, which is expected to be a significant addition to Kangana’s body of work.
