The longstanding feud between Kangana Ranaut and Sonu Sood, which began during the production of Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi in 2019, continues to impact their relationship. In a recent interview with Shubhankar Mishra, Sonu disclosed that he and Kangana are no longer in contact, despite their previously close friendship.
Recalling their past camaraderie, Sonu expressed fondness for Kangana and her family. “I left Manikarnika also because Kangana is my friend. We’re not on talking terms now, but her parents and sister still greet me warmly. I have a rule in life—if I’ve been close to someone, I won’t speak against them even if we’ve had disagreements,” he said.
Sonu added that while he refrains from responding to hurtful comments, he sometimes feels disheartened. “I feel it’s her foolishness, not malice. At times, people say or write things without thinking them through. I’ve made naive mistakes too, but there’s no regret. I choose not to react to her statements,” he explained.
When asked if Kangana had approached him for another project, Sonu clarified that they have not spoken since his exit from Manikarnika. Despite attempts by mutual friends to reconcile, the rift remains unresolved.
The fallout originated when Sonu exited Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi, citing his professional commitments to Simmba. However, speculation arose that his departure was due to clashes with Kangana, who took over the film’s direction from Krish Jagalamudi for extensive reshoots. Kangana alleged that Sonu left because he refused to work under a female director, a claim he firmly denied. Sonu’s role was eventually recast with Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub.
The controversy surrounding Manikarnika marked the end of their friendship, leaving a lasting strain on their relationship. Despite the fallout, both stars have moved on professionally. Sonu is gearing up for the release of his upcoming film Fateh, while Kangana is busy promoting her political drama Emergency.
Though their paths have diverged, Sonu maintains that he holds no animosity towards Kangana, choosing instead to remember their friendship with respect and positivity.