Kangana Ranaut says she is not enjoying politics: 'More like social service, Never thought of serving people'

Kangana Ranaut, now serving as Member of Parliament from Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi constituency, has shared an honest account of her early experiences in politics. Representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the actress-turned-politician recently discussed her evolving role in public life during an episode of the Atman in Ravi podcast.

Reflecting on her initial months in office, Kangana admitted that entering politics has not been an easy transition. “I’m getting a hang of it. I wouldn’t say that I am enjoying it (politics). It’s a very different kind of work, more like social service. This hasn’t been my background. I’ve never thought of serving people,” she said.

Despite being vocal on national issues and women’s rights for several years, Kangana pointed out that political responsibilities come with different expectations. “I’ve fought for women’s rights, but that’s different,” she added. “Somebody’s naali is broken, and I’m like, ‘But I am an MP and these people are coming to me with panchayat-level problems.’ They don’t care. When they see you, they come to you with problems like broken roads, and I tell them that’s a state government issue, and they say, ‘You have money, you use your own money.’”

I’m getting a hang of it. I wouldn’t say that I am enjoying it (politics). It’s a very different kind of work, more like social service. This hasn’t been my background. I’ve never thought of serving people

- Kangana Ranaut

Since winning her seat in the 2024 general elections by defeating Congress candidate Vikramaditya Singh, Kangana has taken part in public programs and official duties, including attending parliamentary sessions. Still, her recent remarks indicate that she is adjusting to the demands of elected office, which involve a close connection with local concerns, often unrelated to her previous public work.

When asked whether she sees herself in a larger leadership role in the future, Kangana was direct. “I don’t think I’m competent to be the PM of India, nor do I have the necessary passion or inclination,” she stated.

Kangana’s entry into politics came after years of public engagement on cultural and social matters. Her current journey as an MP marks a new phase, one she describes as unfamiliar but ongoing, with her focus now shifting from commentary to constituency work.