A Dubai-based RJ’s bold criticism of Param Sundari has now snowballed into a larger cultural debate, questioning Bollywood’s treatment of regional identities and the fine line between creative liberty and cultural misrepresentation.
Dubai-based radio jockey and playback singer Pavithra Menon has become the center of a cultural debate after strongly criticizing Bollywood’s latest film Param Sundari, starring Janhvi Kapoor.
In a candid video, Pavithra called out what she described as “cringe-worthy” stereotypes of Malayali culture that were showcased in the trailer. She noted that Bollywood often resorts to lazy storytelling techniques when portraying Kerala, reducing an entire state and its people to clichés such as jasmine flowers in hair, exaggerated accents, and Mohiniyattam dance references.
Pavithra didn’t mince her words, questioning why the filmmakers failed to cast a native Malayali actress for a role so deeply rooted in Kerala’s identity. “What’s the problem in hiring a proper Malayali actor? Are we less talented?” she asked, reflecting the frustrations of many Malayali artists who feel sidelined in Bollywood despite the community’s rich artistic talent.
The controversy took a bigger turn when Pavithra’s critical video was reportedly taken down by Instagram after receiving a third-party copyright strike. Sharing a screenshot of the removal notice, she wrote sarcastically, “Happy Independence Day to everyone who has a voice,” implying that her right to free expression was being suppressed.
This takedown triggered an outpouring of anger from Malayali creators across social media. Several influencers claimed their own reaction videos to the Param Sundari trailer had also been removed, leading to accusations that the film’s makers were attempting to silence cultural criticism.
Pavithra’s comments resonated widely, sparking a wave of discussions among Malayali audiences both in India and abroad. Many pointed out that Bollywood has a long history of misrepresenting regional cultures, often relying on caricatures rather than authentic portrayals.
Malayali content creators emphasized that Kerala is far more diverse and sophisticated than the narrow lens through which Bollywood often depicts it. The backlash underlined a larger sentiment—that Indian cinema needs to evolve beyond clichés and start offering more authentic and inclusive representation.
The Param Sundari controversy goes beyond just one film. It reflects an ongoing struggle for cultural authenticity in Indian cinema. As regional industries like Mollywood (Malayalam cinema) continue to gain international acclaim for their storytelling, audiences are demanding that Bollywood step up its game in terms of realism, inclusivity, and respect for cultural identities.
For Pavithra Menon, the controversy has only amplified her voice as an advocate for fair representation. Her bold stance has not only highlighted Bollywood’s creative shortcuts but also inspired a broader conversation about how diverse communities across India deserve to be portrayed with dignity.
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