Kangana on taking the road less travelled

Kangana Ranaut’s journey in Bollywood has been nothing short of remarkable, with roles that got her Indian National Awards thrice. She is now geared up for various new projects; Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi, Mental Hai Kya and a sports drama directed by Ashwini Iyer Tiwari. The actress says she is someone who has always taken on diverse roles, has broken most stereotypes and believes in being off the beaten path.

The 31-year-old has faced some tough times in Bollywood, but says that has not changed her as a person. “I am a straightforward person. I have always said exactly what is on my mind and voiced my opinion on what I believe is right — whether it is in my personal life, or professional. My experiences, whether good or bad, have definitely helped me evolve and made me who I am today,” she said.

Working hard and giving her best to everything that she does have been key to her. “The best feeling is being able to do something you think you wouldn’t be able to. It is this high that I enjoy and what pushes me to brave any obstacles laid out for me,” said Ranaut.

This year, Ranaut made heads turn at her debut appearance at the Cannes Film Festival. She was seen in her boldest avatar yet at the gala, receiving both appreciation and criticism.

She calls it a fulfilling trip.

“Being a part of the fashion industry always comes with its pros and cons. There is always positive and negative criticism around any actor and the only way to overcome that is by being yourself. Cannes has been memorable this year as I had the opportunity to showcase another side of myself,” said the actress.