29th March 2023, Mumbai: Bollywood actress Rakhi Sawant most recently caused a stir by imitating Malaika Arora’s walking gait in a video that instantly went viral on social media. Sawant faced harsh criticism and cries for an apology after several fans and other celebrities claimed that he had disrespected and jeered at Arora.
Sawant did not give up, defending herself in a string of films that were uploaded to her Instagram account. As an artist, I am free to pursue my interests, Sawant stated. “I shall express myself in my own way; it is the people’s issue if they don’t like it.”
Sawant said that other celebrities had emulated or replicated each other in the past without experiencing the same kind of response, accusing her detractors of being hypocritical and picky in their fury. She also questioned whether her detractors were motivated by aspects of her history or gender.
Sawant has been a focal point for debate and criticism due to her outspoken and frequently controversial opinions on a variety of subjects. She hasn’t been afraid to express herself, though, in her own special manner.
The Sawant and Arora affair is only the most recent in a slew of scandals that have plagued Bollywood in recent years. Many concerns, including nepotism, sexism, and the treatment of outsiders, have brought the business under increasing scrutiny and criticism.
There have been requests for more diversity and representation in terms of the kinds of stories that are told and the individuals who are given opportunities to tell them, and many people think that the business needs considerable change and more openness.
Bollywood continues to be a strong and important force in Indian culture and society despite these difficulties, and many people are still drawn to its movies, music, and stars.
However, cases like the one involving Sawant and Arora highlight the need for more knowledge and comprehension of topics like cultural appropriation and respect for other people’s traditions and identities. While the artistic expression is vital, it’s also critical to think about how one’s activities may affect other people.
It is evident that there is a rising desire for more transparency, reform, and social consciousness among both insiders and outsiders as the sector struggles to address these and other issues. Uncertainty surrounds whether or not these initiatives will be effective in bringing about substantive change, but one thing is certain: Bollywood is in for a rude awakening, and it is up to all of us to choose what type of business we want it to be.