Kangana Ranaut clarifies 'generation gutter' Gen Z remarks, says she was criticising behaviour only

New Delhi: BJP MP and actor Kangana Ranaut has issued a public clarification after facing widespread criticism over her recent remarks about Gen Z, insisting that her comments were directed at what she described as inappropriate public behaviour rather than an entire generation.

In a video shared on Instagram on Wednesday, Ranaut said she objected to what she viewed as "unethical" conduct being displayed in public spaces, arguing that such behaviour should not be accepted or normalised, particularly in the presence of children, women and elderly people.

Responding to criticism from political opponents and sections of the media, the BJP MP accused some outlets of presenting her remarks out of context. She maintained that her comments reflected concerns about public conduct and civic responsibility rather than an attack on young people as a whole.

To reinforce her point, Ranaut said she has consistently appreciated young Indians who are making meaningful contributions across different fields. She cited examples ranging from space technology start-up founders to students who have excelled academically and young people supporting their families, adding that many members of Gen Z also work alongside her professionally.

Ranaut argued that values such as discipline, respect for others and civic responsibility should not be dismissed as outdated expectations. She questioned criticism suggesting younger generations should not face similar standards of behaviour and said individual freedom must be exercised without infringing on the rights or dignity of others.

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During the video, she also criticised what she called "feminazis," accusing them of encouraging behaviour that she described as irresponsible and harmful. She urged young people to make independent judgments about the messages they follow online and said personal conduct should reflect both constitutional values and social responsibility.

Ending her remarks with a Guru Purnima message, Ranaut said the lessons she had received from her elders and teachers emphasised personal growth and self-improvement. She encouraged young people to pursue what she described as positive evolution rather than regressive behaviour.

What sparked the controversy?

The clarification comes days after Ranaut's earlier comments about a section of the younger generation triggered criticism on social media and from political figures. Her remarks, including the phrase "generation gutter," drew sharp reactions from critics who accused her of making sweeping generalisations about Gen Z.

Among those responding was Saurav Das, who questioned Ranaut's choice of language and argued that such remarks unfairly targeted young people. He also criticised her performance as a Member of Parliament, alleging that she was attempting to draw attention by commenting on the ongoing protest movement.

Das said leaders should engage with young citizens more constructively rather than using language that, in his view, alienates an entire generation. He also claimed Ranaut was seeking publicity by inserting herself into the issue.

With agency inputs