'Please Come Out Of Hindu-Muslim Mindset': Kangana Ranaut REACTS To Sharmila Tagore's Vande Mataram Remark

Veteran actress Sharmila Tagore weighed in on the debate surrounding India's National Song, Vande Mataram, by asserting that the anthem may not align with the religious sentiments of certain individuals. Kangana Ranaut shared a video of Sharmila and expressed her respect for her perspective, but confessed to being "shocked" by how such views could be limiting as an artist.

Kangana penned a lengthy message on her social media, stating, "I appreciate Sharmila ji's stance on Vande Mataram, but I am taken aback as an artist to see how limiting and contrived her views on art/poetry can be." She continued, "Vande Mataram embodies the spirit of the freedom struggle, and Bankim Chandra ji is urging the nation to awaken the inner strength within."

Kangana questioned how one could reduce such a significant piece of art to "a mere religious practice." She also drew attention to the words of Swami Vivekananda, who famously stated, "I need youth made of iron, bones of steel, and veins filled with thunderbolt," which she interpreted as a call for strength, rather than a weather forecast.

Kangana urged, "Please come out of Hindu-Muslim mindset even if we believe in one God." She compared this to doctors calling power Shakti, emphasizing the need for unity. Kangana concluded that her disagreement with Sharmila was not personal, but rather a difference in opinion. She ended her post by expressing her love and affection for Sharmila, adding, "I absolutely love you and don't mind a crushing hug like you always give me."

The ongoing controversy revolves around whether the complete Vande Mataram or just its first two verses should be sung at public or party events. Some monotheistic followers find the latter stanzas, which reference Hindu deities, objectionable.