Bollywood Feud Takes a Twist: Swara Bhasker Defends Kangana Ranaut’s Grit Amid Husband’s Sharp Critique
In a surprising turn during a candid interview, actor Swara Bhasker found herself at odds with her husband, politician Fahad Ahmad, over his pointed assessment of fellow actor-turned-MP Kangana Ranaut. While Fahad labeled her a “bad politician,” Swara countered with admiration for Kangana’s resilience, highlighting a rare moment of divergence in the couple’s public discourse.
The exchange unfolded in a conversation with Filmygyan, where the hosts prompted Swara and Fahad national president of the Nationalist Youth Congress (Sharadchandra Pawar) to assign a fitting hashtag to Kangana, the BJP MP from Mandi. Fahad did not hold back, opting for #BadPolitician. He elaborated on his choice, citing Kangana’s perceived shortcomings in addressing the flood-ravaged Mandi region. “Despite being an MP, she kept saying, ‘What can I do? I’m not the Prime Minister. I’m not a Minister. A representative’s job is to talk to the government,” he said. Fahad argued that she should have pushed for special funds and transcended partisan lines. He balanced his criticism by acknowledging her talent, adding, “She is a really good actor and I really like her as an actor, but she is a very bad politician.”
Swara’s reaction was one of visible astonishment, prompting her to offer a contrasting perspective. She chose #DestinysChild, emphasizing Kangana’s compelling life story. “There is something very admirable about her and her journey and #NeverGiveUp,” Swara remarked. “I don’t think she gives up in life.” The moment underscored Swara’s effort to navigate the sensitive topic without escalating tensions, especially given the pair’s well-documented history.
Fahad, undeterred, then reminisced about a warmer interaction: Kangana’s congratulatory message following their wedding, in which she noted how compatible the couple appeared. Yet, he reaffirmed his stance on the hashtag, drawing a playful rebuke from Swara: “Pachas bar maat bolo (Don’t say it 50 times).”
This exchange comes against the backdrop of a protracted rivalry between Swara and Kangana, spanning more than five years. The two collaborated on the films Tanu Weds Manu in 2011 and Tanu Weds Manu Returns in 2015, but their rapport soured publicly in 2020. Tensions ignited on Twitter when Kangana branded Swara and Taapsee Pannu as “B-grade actresses.” In a 2021 interview, Kangana further claimed that the duo both industry outsiders downplayed nepotism to curry favor with filmmaker Karan Johar, yet still struggled for roles. Swara fired back sarcastically on the platform, dubbing the remark a “compliment.” Months later, another Twitter spat concluded with Swara declaring her affection for Kangana.
More recently, last year, Swara weighed in on the incident where Kangana was slapped by a CISF constable at Chandigarh airport. While condemning the act, Swara urged focus on broader national concerns.