Mumbai: Actor-politician Kangana Ranaut has strongly criticised societal perceptions of nursing, asserting that the profession is often 'sexualised' and stereotyped despite nurses being among the most crucial frontline healthcare workers. She emphasised that the role remains deeply underappreciated in public discourse.
Film Aims to Change Perceptions
Speaking about her upcoming film 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata', inspired by the extraordinary true story of the brave staff of Mumbai's Cama Hospital during the 26/11 terror attacks, Kangana said the film aims to change public perceptions and promote greater respect for nurses and other frontline healthcare workers. In an exclusive conversation in Mumbai, Kangana stated, 'Badlaav hona chahiye logon ke jo bhaav hai unke liye usme badlaav hona chahiye (We want to change people's emotions and perceptions). I think it is the most sexualised profession.'
Challenges Faced by Nurses
Highlighting the challenges faced by nurses, she added that they are often underpaid, overworked, and underappreciated despite handling some of the most demanding responsibilities in hospitals. 'They are underpaid, they are overworked, and they are most sexualised,' she said. Headlined by Kangana Ranaut, the film shifts the spotlight from celebrated heroes to nurses and ward boys who became the nation's quiet saviours when it mattered most. 'Hamari film mein dialogue bhi hai ki do log nurse ko dekhkar time mila to do chaar baatein bhi kar lo..That is the reality,' shared Ranaut while highlighting how people treat nurses in society. 'We don't give them the respect they deserve. Nurses do a lot of important work, from cleaning patients to ensuring the hospital functions smoothly. If our perspective changes because of this film, even for a few minutes, it will be meaningful,' she added.
Overlooked Contributions
Kangana said that society often tends to overlook the contribution of healthcare support staff, including ward boys, watchmen, and others who form the backbone of medical institutions. 'When we think about hospitals, we naturally think of doctors, and their contribution is immense. But why don't we pause and think about the millions of workers who keep the system running every day?' she said.
Bravery During 26/11 Attacks
The actor also recalled the bravery of hospital staff during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, saying they played a crucial role as witnesses in identifying the terrorists. 'People will be surprised to know that they were the key witnesses in identifying Ajmal Kasab. Even after everything they went through, they stood by the country and showed remarkable courage,' Kangana said.
Trailer and Title Inspiration
The trailer of 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata' was recently unveiled, offering a glimpse into a story inspired by true events. The film highlights the extraordinary bravery of ordinary hospital workers who helped save more than 400 lives during a terror attack. Kangana plays the role of a staff nurse in the film, which shifts the focus from celebrated heroes to nurses, ward boys, and other hospital staff who emerged as silent saviours during a moment of national crisis. During the event, Kangana also explained that the title Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata has been inspired by the words of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 'The name Bharat Bhagya Vidhata was given by the Prime Minister in 2025. He named the specially-abled as 'Divyangjan'. He also changed the name of the scheme for widows to 'Kalyani'. The workers who make things with their hands were named 'Vishwakarma'. In the same manner, he named the labourers as 'Bharat Bhagya Vidhata'. This touched our hearts, and thus we wanted to keep it as our title,' Kangana said at the film's trailer launch.
Inspired by real-life incidents, the trailer underlines a chilling truth: without them, the system would collapse in a single day. Kangana Ranaut is seen portraying the character of a staff nurse, an everyday woman whose dedication often goes unnoticed. Presented by Dr Jayantilal Gada (PEN Studios), the film is produced by PEN Studios, Manikarnika Films, and Paramhans Creations, in association with Eunoia Films LLP and Floating Rocks Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata' is slated to release in theatres on June 12, 2026.
