Kangana Ranaut has joined the viral “2026 is the new 2016” social media trend, using the opportunity to reflect on a decade of intense personal and professional change. In a candid Instagram post, the actor-politician looked back at 2016—a year that saw her reach the pinnacle of her career, only to be met with a “living hell” of legal battles.
Reflections on 2016: The Peak and the Pit
Kangana shared a series of throwback photos from 2016, featuring her signature short hair from the Rangoon era. In her caption, she highlighted the sharp contrast between her public success and private distress:
- The Professional High: Following the back-to-back success of Queen and Tanu Weds Manu Returns, Kangana had become the highest-paid actress in Bollywood.
- The Legal “Hell”: She noted that in January 2016, a “controversial legal notice” from a colleague (widely understood to be Hrithik Roshan) shifted everything.
- The Industry Divide: Kangana claimed the notice “shook and divided the industry into insiders and outsiders,” turning her success “poisonous.”
“Success became poisonous and life became a living hell. Sides were taken and many more legal battles followed.”
“2026 is the New 2016”: Why it’s Trending
The trend Kangana joined has taken over Instagram and TikTok in the first weeks of 2026. Since it has officially been 10 years since 2016, users are:
- Posting nostalgic “lo-fi” carousels and grainy selfies.
- Using the iconic “Rio de Janeiro” Instagram filter.
- Reflecting on how much their lives have changed in a decade.
For Kangana, 2026 represents a state of peace. She concluded her post by mentioning that she now “laughs a lot” and enjoys her meals without the misery of past drama.
What’s Next for Kangana?
While reflecting on the past, Kangana is also gearing up for a massive 2026 on the professional front, returning to the franchises that made her a superstar:
| Project | Status/Details |
| Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata | Currently filming (started Jan 2026) |
| Queen 2 | Shoot expected to begin soon (Vikas Bahl directing) |
| Tanu Weds Manu 3 | Scheduled to go on floors in early 2026 with R. Madhavan |
| Manikarnika Returns | Slated for a 2026 release |