March 26, 2025: Bollywood’s latest drama isn’t unfolding on the big screen—it’s playing out on social media for all to see. Filmmaker Hansal Mehta and actor-turned-BJP MP Kangana Ranaut are trading barbs over a controversy involving comedian Kunal Kamra, and the online spat has everyone picking sides. According to a report the fireworks started when a discussion about Kamra’s recent run-in with authorities spiraled into a personal showdown, dragging up old wounds and reigniting a debate about free speech, fairness, and Bollywood’s tangled ties with politics.

Kamra Controversy – How It All Began

The mess kicked off with Kunal Kamra, a stand-up comic known for his sharp tongue. His latest gig took a jab at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and it didn’t go over well. Shinde’s supporters hit back hard—literally—vandalizing the Mumbai studio where Kamra performed. The Bombay Municipal Corporation (BMC) followed up by bulldozing parts of the venue, citing building violations. Sound familiar? It’s eerily similar to what happened to Kangana Ranaut back in 2020, when her Bandra bungalow got the BMC treatment after she clashed with the then-ruling Shiv Sena.

Hansal Mehta, the director behind hits like Scam 1992, didn’t hold back. He jumped online to defend Kamra, slamming the violence and intimidation as a blow to free expression. “No matter how deep the disagreement, violence can never be justified,” he tweeted, even sharing his own story of being attacked by Shiv Sena loyalists 25 years ago over a line in his film Dil Pe Mat Le Yaar!!. For Mehta, this isn’t just about Kamra—it’s personal.

Was her house vandalised. Did goons enter her premises? Did they do this to challenge her freedom of expression or for alleged FSI violations? Please enlighten me. Maybe I don’t know the facts. https://t.co/sUQxYr6uow

— Hansal Mehta (@mehtahansal) March 25, 2025

Kangana Fires Back

Enter Kangana Ranaut, who wasn’t about to let this slide. The Queen star, now a vocal BJP MP, saw Mehta’s stance as a chance to settle some scores. She’d already blasted Kamra for mocking Shinde’s humble roots, saying, “Insulting someone who’s worked hard to rise isn’t comedy—it’s disgraceful.” But when a social media user called out Mehta for not supporting her during her 2020 demolition ordeal, the gloves came off.

Kangana unleashed a scathing reply: “They called me names, threatened me, and bulldozed my house before the courts could even open. The High Court called it illegal, and people laughed at my pain.” She didn’t stop there, taking a swipe at Mehta’s work, labeling him a “third-rate director” blinded by “insecurity and mediocrity.” Ouch. Mehta’s comeback? A cool, “Get well soon,” keeping it short but dripping with shade.

They called me names like haramkhor, threatened me, served a notice late in the night to my watchman and next morning before courts could open bulldozers demolished the entire house. High court called the demolition completely illegal.
They laughed at it and raised a toast to… https://t.co/eUF54JQqOp

— Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) March 25, 2025

A Tale of Two Demolitions

Here’s where it gets messy. Kangana’s 2020 clash with the BMC came after she compared Mumbai to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, riling up the Shiv Sena-led government at the time. The demolition of her property was ruled illegal, and she’s still bitter about it. Fast forward to today, and she’s arguing the action against Kamra’s venue is “completely legal,” a stance that’s raised eyebrows. Critics see hypocrisy—why’s it okay now but not then? Supporters say it’s about context: Kangana claims her case was political revenge, while Kamra’s is tied to lawful enforcement.

For the average onlooker, it’s a head-scratcher. Two celebrities, two demolitions, one city—but the rules seem to shift depending on who’s in the hot seat. It’s less about buildings and more about power, pride, and who gets to speak their mind without a bulldozer knocking at their door.

Bollywood, Politics, and Free Speech

This isn’t just a Bollywood spat—it’s a snapshot of bigger tensions. Kamra’s refusal to apologize (“I don’t fear this mob,” he posted) has split opinions. Some hail him as a free-speech warrior; others, like Kangana, see him as a fame-chaser hiding behind comedy. Mehta’s camp argues artists should provoke without fear of violence, while Kangana’s side insists there’s a line—and Kamra crossed it.

Fans are eating it up. “Hansal’s right—silencing people with force is a slippery slope,” one X user wrote. Another shot back, “Kangana’s got a point. You can’t just trash someone’s dignity and call it a joke.” The feud’s even dredged up their past collaboration on Simran (2017), with some wondering if old grudges are fueling the fire.

Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, known for his iconic roles and stellar performances, is celebrating his birthday on March 14. On this special occasion, the actor surprised fans and media alike by introducing his girlfriend Gauri, a significant presence in his life whom he met 25 years ago.

A Longstanding Connection Rekindled

During a heartwarming media interaction, Aamir Khan opened up about his relationship with Gauri. “Gauri and I met 25 years ago, and now we are partners. We are very serious and committed to each other. We’ve been together for a year and a half,” Aamir revealed, expressing his deep affection.

Bollywood’s Power Trio Welcome Gauri

The Bollywood icon further shared that he recently introduced Gauri to his close friends Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan at his Mumbai residence. The gathering marked a special moment as Aamir celebrated this new chapter in his personal life with his industry friends.

Who is Gauri Spratt?

Sharing insights about Gauri, Aamir revealed that she works in film production. Adding a romantic touch, he mentioned, “I sing to her every day.“

Lagaan’s Bhuvan Finds His Gauri

In a nostalgic reference to his iconic film Lagaan, Aamir playfully said, “Bhuvan ko apni Gauri mil gayi.” Fans of the film will remember that actress Gracy Singh played the role of Gauri, Bhuvan’s love interest, making this statement particularly heartfelt.

A Musical Tribute to Love

During the session, Aamir serenaded Gauri by singing a few lines from the timeless song “Kabhi Kabhi Mere Dil Mein”, creating a memorable moment for all present.

Reflections on Family and Relationships

While addressing the media, Aamir reflected on his journey at 60, saying, “I don’t know if getting married at 60 suits me or not. But my kids are very happy. I’m fortunate to have great relationships with my ex-wives.“

Aamir Khan was previously married to film producer Reena Dutta, with whom he shares two children, Junaid and Ira Khan. He later married filmmaker Kiran Rao in 2005, and though they separated in 2021, they continue to co-parent their son Azad.

In June 2024, India witnessed the theatrical debut of Kalki 2898 AD, a sci-fi extravaganza starring Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and Saswata Chatterjee. Despite a staggering ₹95.3 crore opening, the film’s reception fluctuated dramatically over its initial days.

Kalki 2898 AD

Set in a dystopian future where Utopian Shambala thrives under a protective force field akin to Avatar‘s Tree of Life, contrasting with a Mad Max-esque desert world, Kalki 2898 AD weaves a narrative drawing parallels from the Mahabharata. The film‘s complex narrative structure includes nods to marketing strategies and financial parallels, offering viewers intriguing insights.

Financial Insights:

1. Bhairava as Flexi Cap Funds: Portrayed by Prabhas, Bhairava epitomizes flexibility and opportunism, akin to flexi cap funds. He navigates diverse challenges, leveraging his skills and alliances to achieve his goal of entering “The Complex,” mirroring the fund’s ability to invest across market caps for optimal returns.

2. Deepika Padukone’s Sum-80 like Small Cap Funds: Deepika’s character embodies resilience and growth potential, akin to small cap funds promising substantial rewards amidst risks. Her journey reflects the volatile yet rewarding nature of investments in smaller companies.

3. Amitabh Bachchan as Large Cap Funds: Amitabh Bachchan’s portrayal of Ashwatthama parallels large cap funds—stable, experienced, and reliable over the long term. His strategic prowess and enduring presence symbolize steady returns in investment.

4. ‘The Complex’ as Retirement Plans: Symbolizing ultimate comfort and security, ‘The Complex’ parallels retirement plans. It represents a goal for Bhairava, much like investors aim to secure their future with pension and annuity plans, ensuring a comfortable life post-retirement.

Despite its lengthy runtime and thematic complexities, Kalki 2898 AD prompts viewers to ponder financial prudence amidst its cinematic marvels. Directed by visionary filmmakers and critiqued by industry experts like Manisha Lakhe, the film blends spectacle with introspective financial lessons.

For more on the film’s cultural impact and financial allegories, follow Manisha Lakhe on Twitter @manishalakhe.