Mumbai: Actor and politician Kangana Ranaut has said nurses are among the most overlooked professionals in society and described nursing as “the most sexualised profession”, calling for greater respect and recognition for healthcare workers.
Speaking ahead of the release of her upcoming film Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata, Kangana highlighted the challenges faced by nurses, including low pay, demanding work schedules and a lack of public appreciation despite their critical role in healthcare.
Film highlights unsung healthcare heroes
The actor made the remarks while discussing Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata, a film inspired by the true story of staff members at Mumbai’s Cama Hospital during the 26/11 terror attacks.
The film focuses on nurses, ward attendants and hospital employees who continued performing their duties during the crisis, bringing attention to their courage and dedication.
Kangana expressed hope that the film would help change public perceptions of the nursing profession and encourage greater respect for those working in hospitals.
Calls for change in public perception
According to Kangana, nurses often face difficult working conditions while receiving limited recognition for their contributions.
She said healthcare workers perform numerous responsibilities that are essential to patient care and hospital operations, yet their efforts frequently go unnoticed.
The actor added that if the film succeeds in altering how people view nurses, even temporarily, it would be a significant achievement.
Comments on nursing uniforms
Kangana also shared her personal views on the dress code traditionally associated with nurses.
She suggested that the influence of British-era uniform standards remains visible in modern healthcare settings and noted that nurses continue to follow stricter appearance norms than many other medical professionals.
While discussing the subject, she emphasised that a healthcare worker’s value lies in their service and commitment rather than appearance.
According to Kangana, dignity and integrity are central themes of the film, which aims to portray healthcare professionals with respect.
Kangana portrays a nurse in the film
In Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata, Kangana plays a staff nurse who becomes one of the unsung heroes during the Mumbai terror attacks.
The film seeks to showcase the resilience, bravery and professionalism displayed by hospital workers who continued caring for patients under extraordinary circumstances.
By placing nurses and hospital staff at the centre of the story, the film aims to highlight a group whose contributions are often overshadowed in narratives surrounding major national events.
Ensemble cast and release date
The film also features Girija Oak, Smita Tambe, Amrutha Namdev, Esha Dey, Priya Berde, Asha Shelar, Suhita Thatte, Rasika Aghase, Aditya Mishra and Zahid Khan.
Presented by Pen Studios, the film is produced by Manikarnika Films and Paramhans Creations in association with Eunoia Films LLP and Floating Rocks Entertainment Pvt. Ltd.
Written and directed by Manoj Tapadia, Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata is scheduled to release in theatres on June 12, 2026.
Spotlight on healthcare workers
With its focus on the experiences of nurses and hospital staff during one of India’s most challenging moments, the film aims to draw attention to the vital role healthcare workers play in society.
Kangana’s remarks have also sparked discussion about workplace recognition, public perception and the representation of nurses in popular culture, themes that the film seeks to explore through its narrative.