Mumbai, Jan 31: Veteran actor Waheeda Rehman has praised Kangana Ranaut for her performance and direction in her latest "Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi". The epic drama features Ranaut in the titular role of the iconic freedom fighter.  "I am highly impressed by Kangana's performance and direction in 'Manikarnika'. She looks absolutely fabulous and beautiful.  "I am really happy and proud of her. God bless her and wishing her all the best," Rehman, 80, said in a statement. 

Kangana Ranaut

She was shown the film Wednesday evening at a special screening, along with other yesteryear stars. Veteran actor-director Asha Parekh, who was also present at the screening, lauded Ranaut for her work in the film. "I really liked it, she has done a great job and worked really hard. I hope the film runs for a very long time... She indeed looks like the Rani of Jhansi in the film," Parekh, 76, said.  The film, however, has mired into a controversy over the direction credit between Krish and Ranaut.