"I stood up for her genuinely because she was unfairly targeted."
In a recent interview, Randeep Hooda opened up about his decision to stand up for his Highway co-star, Alia Bhatt.
Known for his straightforward nature, Randeep emphasised the spiritual bond he shares with Alia.
He believed she was unfairly singled out by Kangana.
Speaking to Siddharth Kannan, Randeep said: “While making Highway, I developed a spiritual bond with Alia.
“I don’t know if it’s the same for her. That’s up to her.
“I can only speak for myself. I have seen that she has always tried to do new things.
“I stood up for her genuinely because she was unfairly targeted.”
Randeep did not mince words when commenting on Kangana’s remarks, stating:
“To target your fellow actors or your colleagues or your fraternity over things that you feel you did not get, even though I think you did get a lot from this industry, it’s just unbecoming.
“I felt that I should do it and I did it.”
The incident in question dates back to 2019 when Kangana Ranaut criticised Alia Bhatt’s performance in Gully Boy, labelling her “mediocre”.
Kangana’s remarks sparked a media frenzy, with many weighing in on the controversy.
In response to Kangana’s comments, Alia remained composed and even praised her.
She said: “I definitely don’t have the ability to speak as candidly as Kangana does.
“I really do respect her for that. And, maybe, in a way, she is right.”
Randeep Hooda also commended Alia’s resilience at the time on X.
He tweeted: “Dearest @aliaa08 I’m so glad you are not letting the opinions of very occasional actors and chronic victims affect you and your work.
“Kudos to you for your continued efforts to outdo yourself.”
Bhatt, in turn, acknowledged his support with a heartfelt response.
On the work front, Randeep Hooda recently made his directorial debut with the biopic Swatantrya Veer Savarkar.
The film received mixed reviews but failed to make a significant impact at the box office.
Meanwhile, Alia Bhatt has several exciting projects in the pipeline.
With projects like Vasan Bala’s Jigra, Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War, and her involvement in Yash Raj Films’ spy universe, Alia’s career seems poised for further success.
As for Kangana Ranaut, she remains a polarising figure in Bollywood, known for her outspoken views and frequent controversies.
With her upcoming film Emergency set to release soon, Kangana Ranaut is expected to remain in the spotlight, both on and off-screen.
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