‘When Janhvi Kapoor Introduces Herself…’: Malayali Influencer Slams Actress’ Poor Diction In Param Sundari

Malayali social media influencer, Pavithra Menon once infamous for her sharp tongue, her criticism of the use of language, reacts adversely to an inapt choice of words used in the performance by Janhvi Kapoor, Param Sundari.  The influencer pointed out a serious problem the incorrect pronunciation of certain words in Hindi and Marathi. She specifically singled out a certain pair of lines where Kapoor introduces herself saying that the following words were pronounced with a wrong accent and an inaccurate pronunciation, first the word Malayalam and secondly the word Malyali. 

Many have lauded the video of the influencer who steered a lot of attention to this problem that is not mentioned in the popular media as much. It gives a reflection that good diction and pronunciation are instrumental in the tools of an actor and linguistic authenticity is another frontier that enhances the depth and respect of acting.

Janhvi Kapoor’s Param Sundari: Linguistic Missteps Spark Debate

At the basis of the criticism lies the linguistic slip-ups in the song. The influencer did not simply analyze one error, but it can be seen as a pattern of her analysis of being lazy in pronunciation. Such as the case, she pointed out, by the unnatural pronunciation of this word Malayalam, more as if it were a colloquial and Anglicised version. Such a phonetic inaccuracy to her denotes the laziness to get details right.

Such mistakes can enforce a disrespect to the terrain, language and cultures especially within a pan-Indian context whereby the film is watched by a mixed audience. The video has led to a debate on how actors should be well trained on correct use of dialect and diction not only to do their job on stage but also to preserve the sanctity of the characters and languages they portray.

Pavithra Menon Call for Authenticity

The message of the influencer is a request to be authentic. In a time when shows run on very large budgets, and the sets, costs, and choreography take much preparation, there is no patient excuse when even the most basic elements of the stage, like diction and dialect seem not to be present. By bringing to attention these concerns, through her platform, she is bringing the emphasis back to it shifting rather significantly as it were toward spectacle as opposed to true craft. This criticism is not pointed to Janhvi Kapoor, but of the industry in general.

The video has gone viral with many angry about the importance of linguistic accuracy as an essential element of cultural representation and the responsibility to actors to behave accordingly. It sends out a strong message on the need to learn to respect languages and cultures, perhaps one lesson that is more effective, rather than one that makes it to the box office.

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