Kangna Ranaut faces ‘Go Back’ slogans in disaster-hit Manali

Actor-turned- MP from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Kangna Ranaut, faced angry protests in her hometown Manali in Kullu district on Thursday when she visited rain-hit areas.

In a video that has gone viral ,a section of local residents are seen raising “Kangna go back, you are late” slogans and accusing her of arrogance and indifference to local issues.

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Rains had wreaked havoc in various places in Kullu and Manali on August 25 and 26 as Beas river got flooded.

The protesters holding black flags many of them youth near her carcade shouting slogans and even arguing when BJP leaders accompanying the actor and others who tried to pacify them.

They demanded that she leave, as she had delayed her visit, much to the dissatisfaction of the local residents.

They alleged that she had distanced herself from the concerns of her constituency after her election victory.

Demonstrators waved placards and shouted slogans for several hours before dispersing under police supervision.

Officials said the situation remained under control. “The protest was peaceful. Adequate arrangements were made to ensure law and order,” a senior police officer in Manali confirmed.
This is the first major backlash Ranaut has faced in her hometown since entering active politics. Known for her outspoken style, she has often courted controversy through sharp public statements. While she has not yet issued an official reaction to Thursday’s protest.

The incident has sparked sharp political reactions across Himachal Pradesh. Opposition leaders said the protest reflected growing dissatisfaction with Ranaut’s approach.

“This is only the beginning. Public representatives must learn to stay rooted in their constituencies,” a local Congress leader said.

Her supporters, on the other hand, defended her, arguing that she was being unfairly targeted for her outspoken views.

“She has put Himachal on the national map. Such protests are politically motivated and do not reflect the opinion of the majority,” said a BJP worker in Kullu.

Political observers believe the incident highlights the challenges of translating celebrity status into political credibility.

“Kangna Ranaut is not just a film star now; she is a representative of the people. That transition comes with expectations of humility and accessibility. If she fails to bridge that gap, such backlash will become more frequent,” said a Shimla-based analyst.

Whether the “Go Back” slogans will remain an isolated episode or mark the beginning of broader unrest remains to be seen.

For Ranaut, the protest is a reminder that her political journey in Himachal Pradesh will be tested as much by public sentiment at home as by her national presence.