Full Name: Kangana Amardeep Ranaut
Date of Birth: March 23, 1987
Place of Birth: Bhambla, Himachal Pradesh, India
Profession: Actress, Filmmaker
Years Active: 2006 – present
Early Life and Family
Kangana Ranaut was born in the small town of Bhambla in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, into a Rajput family. Her father, Amardeep Ranaut, is a businessman, and her mother, Asha Ranaut, is a school teacher. She has an elder sister, Rangoli Chandel, who is also her manager, and a younger brother, Akshat Ranaut. Kangana's family initially had conservative views, and her aspirations in the film industry were met with resistance. Despite this, she pursued her dreams with determination.
Physical Attributes
Height:
5 feet 6 inches (168 cm)
Weight:
Approximately 55 kg (121 lbs)
Hair Color: Black
Eye Color:
Dark Brown
Education and Early Career
Kangana was educated at DAV Model School in Chandigarh. She initially aspired to become a doctor but changed her mind after failing a chemistry test in her 12th grade. At 16, she moved to Delhi to pursue modeling and joined the Elite Modelling Agency. Her stint in modeling was brief as she felt a stronger inclination towards acting. Subsequently, she joined the Asmita Theatre Group where she trained under theatre director Arvind Gaur.
Acting Career
Kangana Ranaut made her film debut in 2006 with the thriller "Gangster," directed by Anurag Basu, which earned her the Film fare Award for Best Female Debut. Her performance in the film was widely praised, and she quickly established herself as a talented actress. Some notable films in her career include:
Fashion (2008): Her role as a troubled model won her the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Queen (2014): A turning point in her career, this film won her the National Film Award for Best Actress. Her portrayal of Rani, a naive girl who embarks on a solo honeymoon, was both critically and commercially successful.
Tanu Weds Manu (2011) and Tanu Weds Manu Returns (2015): These films showcased her versatility and comic timing. The latter earned her another National Film Award for Best Actress.
Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi (2019): Kangana not only starred in this historical drama but also made her directorial debut, showcasing her skills behind the camera. In addition to these films, she has appeared in several other successful movies such as Krish 3 (2013), Once Upon a Time in Mumbai (2010), and Panga (2020). Kangana is known for her strong screen presence and ability to portray complex characters.
Filmmaking Career
Kangana has expressed a keen interest in filmmaking. Her directorial debut, "Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi," demonstrated her capabilities in handling large-scale projects. She is set to direct more films, focusing on stories that resonate with her artistic vision.
Personal Life and Controversies
Kangana's personal life has often been in the limelight. She is known for her outspoken nature and has been involved in several public feuds with industry peers. Despite the controversies, her candidness has earned her both admirers and critics. She has been vocal about issues such as nepotism in Bollywood and has frequently advocated for outsider talent in the industry.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Kangana Ranaut's net worth is estimated to be around $13 million. Her earnings come from her successful acting career, endorsements, and her production company, Manikarnika Films. She owns several properties, including a luxurious bungalow in Manali and a stylish apartment in Mumbai.
Awards and Recognition
Kangana Ranaut has received several prestigious awards throughout her career, including:
4th National Film Awards
5 Filmfare Awards
Numerous other accolades and nominations
Philanthropy and Other Venture
Kangana is also involved in various philanthropic activities. She has supported causes related to women's empowerment and education. Additionally, she has ventured into entrepreneurship with her clothing line.
Conclusion
Kangana Ranaut's journey from a small town in Himachal Pradesh to becoming one of Bollywood's most powerful and influential actresses is truly inspiring. Her dedication to her craft, coupled with her fearless attitude, has solidified her place in the industry. Despite facing numerous challenges, she continues to break barriers and set new benchmarks in Indian cinema.
