BJP MP and actor Kangana Ranaut has endorsed Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel's controversial remark that women should first become 'expert mothers' before pursuing careers, arguing that nurturing is an innate quality in women, not something that needs to be taught.
Reacting to a video of Patel's speech, Ranaut shared on X her childhood memories of playing with dolls, building dollhouses, stitching clothes for them, and pretending to cook on toy stoves. She contrasted this with her brother's preference for football and cricket, suggesting caregiving instincts are natural.
Ranaut's childhood reflection
In her post on July 12, 2026, Ranaut wrote, 'When we were small, my brother played football and cricket, but I carefully built dollhouses, stitched their clothes and cooked their food. Much to everyone's amusement at home, I made small chulhas and pretended to be a doll mom.'
The actor-turned-politician further stated, 'It is not something that we need to learn. God has bestowed upon us the duty of nurturing humanity. It is our true nature, which is why women are called Devi, Shakti, Annapurna, Mata and many other such forms. But beyond all that, it is such a joy to love, to feed, to dance and to nurture.'
Governor Patel's original remarks
Patel made the statement on Thursday while addressing the 41st convocation of Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University in Kanpur. She urged women to become 'expert mothers' before aspiring to become IAS officers or teachers. 'Whether you become an IAS officer or a teacher, first become an expert mother. Everyone should know how to cook the food prepared at home,' she said.
The remarks have sparked debate on social media, with some supporting the traditional view of motherhood and others criticizing it as regressive. Ranaut's support adds a prominent voice to the discussion, given her status as a BJP MP and a well-known actor.
