19 May 2023, Mumbai: As the Cannes Film Festival continues to captivate audiences with its glitz and glamour, filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri recently sparked controversy with a tweet addressing the use of assistants accompanying celebrities on the red carpet. His tweet specifically mentioned Aishwarya Rai, sharing a picture of her first red carpet appearance this year, where a man in a black suit assisted her with her gown’s train. Agnihotri raised concerns about the practice, referring to these assistants as ‘costume slaves’ and questioning the growing trend of prioritizing uncomfortable fashion over individual freedom.
The Controversial Tweet:
Accompanying Aishwarya Rai’s picture, Vivek Agnihotri’s tweet highlighted the presence of assistants, particularly women, who help celebrities manage their elaborate costumes. He expressed surprise at the prevalence of such practices in India and criticized the perceived stupidity and oppression associated with uncomfortable fashion choices. Agnihotri’s tweet brings attention to an aspect of the red-carpet experience that is often overlooked. While glamorous outfits and stunning appearances are integral to the Cannes Film Festival, his criticism raises important questions about the power dynamics and expectations imposed on celebrities. The use of assistants, or ‘costume slaves’ as he termed them, raises concerns about the pressure to conform to certain fashion standards, even if they result in discomfort.
The Intersection of Fashion and Freedom:
Agnihotri’s tweet provokes discussions surrounding the fine line between fashion choices and personal freedom. It raises the question of whether celebrities should prioritize their own comfort and self-expression over conforming to societal expectations and trends. The concept of ‘costume slaves’ draws attention to individuals assisting celebrities, prompting further debate on the blurred boundaries between their roles and the perceived hierarchy.
Article By Yashika Desai