Kangana Ranaut calls nurses 'the most sexualised', says they deserve respect

Kangana Ranaut said nurses are "the most sexualised" and deserve more respect for their contribution to healthcare. The actor also highlighted the challenges faced by the profession, including long hours, low pay and a lack of recognition.

In Short

• Kangana Ranaut called nursing the most sexualised profession in India
• She highlighted nurses' lack of recognition despite critical roles
• Film Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata showcased nurses' bravery during 26/11 attacks

Actor-politician Kangana Ranaut has described nurses as "the most sexualised" and said they deserve greater respect for the work they do. Ahead of the release of Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata, the actor spoke about the challenges faced by healthcare workers, arguing that nurses are often underpaid, overworked and overlooked despite their crucial role in hospitals.

The actor made the remarks while discussing her upcoming film, which is inspired by the true story of the staff of Mumbai's Cama Hospital during the 26/11 terror attacks. The film places nurses, ward boys and hospital workers at the centre of the narrative, highlighting their courage and contribution during the crisis.

Speaking to ANI, Kangana said she hopes the film changes the way people perceive the nursing profession.

"Badlaav hona chahiye logon ke joh bhaav hai unke liye usme badlaav hona chahiye (There should be a change in people's emotions towards them, that change should happen). I think it is the most sexualised profession. They are underpaid, they are overworked, and they are most sexualised."

Kangana further said that nurses perform several critical responsibilities that often go unnoticed. According to her, they are rarely given the respect they deserve despite playing a vital role in patient care and hospital operations. She added that if the film succeeds in changing people's perspective, even briefly, it would be a meaningful achievement.

The actor also shared her views on the dress code followed by nurses. She said she feels the influence of the British-era uniform system is still visible today and that nurses continue to adhere to stricter appearance norms than many other healthcare professionals.

“I feel that the dress code of British nurses is still in use. Our nurses, like doctors, can wear whatever they want to wear; they get a code. But our nurses, whether the weather is hot or cold, in a way, have a foreign look. This is my personal opinion. But in this film, we have worked with integrity and dignity. The shape and size doesn't matter, your uniform is your duty,” she added.

In Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata, Kangana essays the role of a staff nurse and portrays one of the healthcare workers who emerged as an unsung hero during the Mumbai terror attacks. The film seeks to shine a light on the bravery and resilience of hospital employees who continued to perform their duties amid extraordinary circumstances.

The film also stars Girija Oak, Smita Tambe, Amrutha Namdev, Esha Dey, Priya Berde, Asha Shelar, Suhita Thatte, Rasika Aghase, Aditya Mishra and Zahid Khan.

Presented by Pen Studios, Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata is produced by Manikarnika Films and Paramhans Creations in association with Eunoia Films LLP and Floating Rocks Entertainment Pvt. Ltd.

Written and directed by Manoj Tapadia, the film is scheduled to release in theatres on June 12, 2026.

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