Indian actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut has hit back at veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah after he questioned the silence of celebrities over recent student protests in Jharkhand.
Shah had criticised the lack of public statements from several prominent figures, suggesting that celebrities would speak out when their conscience prompted them.
He also used a saying involving a dog holding a bone to comment on their silence.
Ranaut responded through Instagram Stories, sharing a post by actor Piyush Mishra while adding her own remarks about loyalty, patriotism and the responsibility of public figures.
She said everyone was loyal to someone but expressed pride in defending the country she “eats from” and fighting for it.
Ranaut targets Shah
Ranaut then directly criticised Shah, accusing him of benefiting from India while allegedly supporting a neighbouring country.
She also addressed Shah's reference to a dog, saying that being compared to a dog could be viewed positively because loyalty and kindness were valuable qualities.
Ranaut then called Shah a “lomdi”, or fox, in a pointed response to his remarks.
The exchange has triggered fresh debate on social media over the political positions of Bollywood celebrities and whether public figures should speak out on social and political issues.
Row comes amid Jharkhand protests
The dispute comes amid demonstrations by job aspirants in Jharkhand.
Ranaut had previously criticised the reported use of water cannons and tear gas against protesters and questioned clashes between demonstrators and police near the Jharkhand Assembly.
Officials said several protesters and police personnel were injured during the clashes.
