The public exchange between BJP MP and actor Kangana Ranaut and Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) spokesperson Saurav Das has intensified, with the latter now responding to the actor-politician’s recent criticism.
Days after Kangana described him as “useless” and “unemployed” in a social media post, Das addressed the controversy in an interview, saying he holds no personal grudge against her and believes differences should be resolved through dialogue rather than personal attacks.
“I Look Like Young Hrithik Roshan”
Speaking to journalist Barkha Dutt on Mojo Story, Das said some of his friends were surprised that Kangana had singled him out.
Recalling a humorous remark from one of them, he said, “One of my friends said maybe she is after my life because I look a little like young Hrithik Roshan.” The comment quickly gained attention online, with many interpreting it as a tongue-in-cheek reference to Kangana’s long-running public dispute with actor Hrithik Roshan.
Calls for Respectful Public Discourse
During the interview, Das said India’s political and social conversations have become increasingly hostile and stressed the need for respectful debate.
“The problem in this country is that people don’t talk anymore. There is less discussion, less debate. We should speak to each other with maryada (dignity),” he said. He also criticised Kangana’s recent remarks about Gen Z protesters, arguing that public figures should be mindful of their language while addressing young people. According to Das, criticism should not come at the cost of respect and civility.
Open to Dialogue
When asked whether he would accept an invitation from Kangana for a coffee meeting, Das said he harbours no ill will towards her or members of the BJP.
“We harbour no ill will against anybody, including BJP MPs and people in the government. We have always believed in dialogue,” he said, adding that conversations are more productive than exchanging insults.
What Kangana Ranaut Said
The latest exchange began after Kangana responded to Das’ criticism through an Instagram post, questioning his credentials and dismissing his comments.
“I googled this person and he is 28 years old. How he claims to be a student I have no clue! Yes I am in politics for past 2 years but I have been in public life for the last 20 years. At his age, I had 2 National Awards.”
She further wrote, “Yes as a new Parliamentarian I was overwhelmed with all the work because I am also a filmmaker + performing artist + producer + screen writer + entrepreneur. But someone like him who is totally useless and unemployed will never understand what it means to be in massive demand in all times at any age. Dear Saurav your issues are personal. You are not a student you are simply useless. Let’s start with learning some skill. It’s a good place to start.”
In the same post, Kangana also criticised Gen Z protesters, referring to them as the “Generation Gutter” and describing their protest videos as “puke-inducing.”
The exchange has since sparked widespread discussion on social media, with users debating the tone of political discourse and the growing trend of public figures responding to criticism through personal remarks.