Preity Zinta's 'fake accent' at Cannes triggers debate on social media

May 25, 2024 01:10 PM

Bollywood star Preity Zinta

Preity Zinta has captivated the audience at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, leaving them spellbound. However, her accent during the event raised eyebrows.

Social media users questioned the authenticity of her accent, sparking a debate online.

For the event, Preity Zinta wore a sequined pink saree and matching blouse. She wore large earrings and opted not to tie her hair.

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A clip of the actor from the event was shared by Brut India on their Instagram handle.

Talking about her outfit, the actor told Brut, "My look is simple yet with a little bit of sparkle." She added that her saree was designed by designer Seema Gujral. When asked about how she felt about being part of the event, Preity said, "It's wonderful. I'm coming after a long time. I'm very excited and happy to be here."

Netizens took to the comments section to point out the change in her accent.

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A person said, "I am perplexed as to why Indians modify their accents when in foreign lands, engaging with natives. It comes across as disingenuous. Why cannot they retain their genuine selves?" A comment read, "Why do you all fake your accent?? Just stay and talk the way you are!" An Instagram user said, "Her accent got me. They sound absolutely ridiculous when they change their accent to one that is some bizarre cosmopolitan made-up one."

"Whatever happened to her accent? That's how colonization works. Making one feel inferior in speaking their own accent, from PC (Priyanka Chopra) to Zinta," said another person. Another comment read, "For once why can’t they define the place from which they come from! Wearing a saree symbolising Indian authenticity but the accent."

Another section of the people supported Preity. A fan said, "She's been living in America with her American husband for a long time. People should stop judging her accent. Also, she’s not speaking to Indian media, so it’s important for her to communicate in a way they understand." A comment read, "People criticising someone speaking Hindi in an English accent is understandable. But what's wrong here? Her husband is a foreigner, thus this accent. Even if she wouldn't have married a foreigner, even then speaking English in an English accent isn't wrong. She's an Indian and wore Indian attire to represent India. We should focus on the positive aspects rather than finding fault."

The actress also spoke with her fans and also signed autographs. She was also seen clicking selfies with her fans.

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Reportedly, Preity made her Cannes debut in 2006. She attended the premiers of two films The Wind That Shakes The Barley and Paris, Je T'aime. In 2013, Preity made a comeback at the French Rivera as the brand ambassador of the luxury watch brand, Chopard.

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