Kangana Ranaut recently joined a popular social media trend, looking back at the year 2016. She shared old photos and opened up about her mixed experiences during that time.
A Year of Highs and Lows
In 2016, Kangana Ranaut reached new heights in her acting career. She became the highest-paid actress in Bollywood after delivering hit films like Queen and Tanu Weds Manu Returns. Her success seemed unstoppable.
However, the year also brought significant personal challenges. In January 2016, fellow actor Hrithik Roshan sent her a legal notice. This notice demanded an apology after Kangana referred to him as her "silly ex" in a media interview.
The Legal Battle Unfolds
The situation quickly escalated into a public feud. Hrithik Roshan denied ever having a relationship with Kangana on social media. He followed up with the legal notice, asking her to retract her statements.
Kangana responded with a counter-notice. What followed was a prolonged legal battle that included leaked emails, cybercrime complaints, and forensic investigations. The Mumbai Police cyber crime unit eventually closed the case with a "NIL report," but the damage was done.
Industry Division and Personal Turmoil
Kangana now describes 2016 as a "living hell." She says the legal notice divided Bollywood into insiders and outsiders. This division sparked the ongoing debate about nepotism in the film industry.
"Success became poisonous," Kangana wrote in her emotional reflection. She felt miserable as sides were taken and more legal battles followed. The actress admits she would have handled things differently if she knew how things would turn out.
Looking Back from 2026
From her current perspective in 2026, Kangana sees things differently. She notes that the drama of 2016 no longer holds the same importance. The actress is now focused on her health, happiness, and upcoming projects.
On the work front, Kangana has several exciting projects lined up. She will appear in Bharat Bhagya Viddhata and is in talks for sequels to her popular films Queen and Tanu Weds Manu. These projects are expected to begin production in early 2026.
The Origin of the Controversy
The feud reportedly began during the filming of Krrish 3 in 2013. Rumors of a relationship between Kangana and Hrithik circulated after the film's release. Hrithik's separation from his wife Sussanne Khan added fuel to the speculation.
Kangana's 2016 comment about her "silly ex" brought everything into the open. Hrithik's strong denial and subsequent legal action created one of Bollywood's most publicized conflicts in recent years.
The actress now seems at peace with the past. She concludes her reflection by expressing gratitude that 2016 is behind her and she's living in 2026 with a fresh perspective.