Kangana Ranaut recently met with the Dalai Lama in Dharamshala, an encounter she described as "divine" and emotionally significant. This meeting occurred shortly after Ranaut announced her decision to enter politics as a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections, representing her hometown of Mandi in Himachal Pradesh.
Reflecting on her meeting, Ranaut shared her experiences on her social media account X, emphasising the profound impact of being in the presence of the Tibetan spiritual leader. Her journey to Dharamshala not only highlights her spiritual quests but also her new political aspirations, especially as she prepares to contest from Mandi—a historically significant and challenging constituency long dominated by the Congress party.
In the broader context of Himachal Pradesh politics, the upcoming elections on June 1 are shaping up to be a significant event, with not only the four Lok Sabha seats up for grabs but also six Assembly seats due to recent disqualifications.
The BJP, which managed a clean sweep of the Lok Sabha seats in 2019, is keen to maintain its stronghold in the region against a backdrop of strong local allegiances to the Congress, particularly in the Mandi constituency.
Mandi is a region deeply tied to the legacy of the late former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, whose family has been a potent political force there. Ranaut's entry into the fray, challenging the incumbent Pratibha Devi Singh, widow of Virbhadra Singh, adds an additional layer of intrigue to the electoral battle.
As she navigates her new political path, Ranaut continues her career in the film industry with upcoming projects like 'Emergency,' which she is not only acting in but also directing.
This blend of politics and cinema in Ranaut’s career showcases her dynamic approach to her professional and personal life, bridging her influence across both spheres.