The Manikarnika Controversy

The Manikarnika Controversy revolves around the depiction of the historic figure Rani Laxmibai of Jhansi in the 2019 Bollywood film *Manikarnika*. Critics and historians debated whether the film accurately represented her life and legacy, particularly concerning gender roles, political alliances, and the events of the 1857 rebellion. Some argued the film romanticized her story or overlooked complex historical facts, sparking discussions on cultural representation and historical accuracy. Overall, the controversy highlights tensions between storytelling, national pride, and maintaining historical integrity in popular media.