Earlier, Turban was Used as Cap in B’wood, We’d Feel Bad: Gippy
The portrayal of Punjabis in Bollywood films has always been a topic of controversy. For years, the Punjabi community has been subjected to stereotypes and misrepresentation on the big screen. However, it seems that the trend is changing, and Bollywood is finally getting it right. Punjabi actor-singer Gippy Grewal recently opened up about the earlier portrayal of Punjabis in Bollywood films and how it made him feel.
In an exclusive interview, Gippy shared that earlier, they used to feel bad after seeing the wrongful representation of Punjabi characters in Bollywood films. He recalled that many times, a clean-shaven person would crack a joke while putting on a turban, which he found odd. Gippy also added that sometimes, the turban was used as a cap, which was unacceptable.
Gippy’s comments come at a time when Bollywood is finally making an effort to portray Punjabis in a more authentic and respectful manner. The film industry has been criticized for perpetuating stereotypes and caricatures of Punjabi characters, often reducing them to comedic relief or exaggerating their accents and mannerisms.
Gippy, who has been in the industry for over a decade, has seen firsthand the evolution of Punjabi representation in Bollywood. He believes that things have changed for the better, with more filmmakers now taking the effort to accurately portray Punjabi characters.
“I think now people portray Punjabis correctly,” Gippy said in the interview. “Earlier, it was very difficult to see ourselves on screen. We would feel bad because people would make fun of our turbans, our clothes, and our way of speaking. But now, I think people are more aware and more respectful of our culture.”
Gippy’s comments are a testament to the progress that Bollywood has made in recent years. The industry has taken steps to address the concerns of the Punjabi community, with films like “Dilwale” and “Befikre” featuring more nuanced and respectful portrayals of Punjabis.
However, there is still much work to be done. The Punjabi community continues to face stereotypes and caricatures on the big screen, and it is essential that filmmakers take the effort to accurately portray Punjabi characters.
Gippy’s comments also highlight the importance of representation and authenticity in Bollywood. The industry has long been criticized for its lack of representation of marginalized communities, including the Punjabi community.
“It’s very important that we see ourselves on screen,” Gippy said. “We want to see people like us, who speak like us, who dress like us. It’s not just about the storyline, it’s about the characters, it’s about the way they are portrayed. We want to see ourselves in a positive light, we want to see ourselves as heroes, as protagonists.”
Gippy’s words are a reminder that representation matters. When marginalized communities see themselves accurately portrayed on screen, it helps to break down stereotypes and challenges the dominant narratives. It also provides a sense of validation and recognition, which is essential for building confidence and self-esteem.
In conclusion, Gippy’s comments are a welcome change in the narrative surrounding Punjabi representation in Bollywood. The industry has come a long way, and it is essential that filmmakers continue to take the effort to accurately portray Punjabi characters. Gippy’s words are a reminder that representation matters, and it is essential that we see ourselves in a positive light on the big screen.
