The Kapoor family, a prominent name in Indian cinema, recently visited New Delhi for a significant purpose. Kareena Kapoor Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Karisma Kapoor, Neetu Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan, and others extended a formal invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his residence. The occasion marked preparations for the 100th birth anniversary celebration of the legendary actor and filmmaker Raj Kapoor. To honor his remarkable contributions, the Kapoors announced a nationwide screening of some of his most iconic films, keeping his legacy alive in Indian cinema.
The Kapoors Struggle with Hindi Communication
Despite being native Hindi speakers and prominent figures in Bollywood, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor, and others found it challenging to converse fluently in Hindi during their interaction with PM Modi. Ranbir, in particular, used a blend of Hindi and English (“Hinglish”) and mispronounced “sawal” as “sawals,” which drew sharp criticism online.
Similarly, Alia and Kareena faced difficulties in framing coherent Hindi sentences, even as they demonstrated fluency in English. Their struggle did not go unnoticed, and social media users were quick to mock the actors for their perceived lack of proficiency in their mother tongue.
Online Reactions: Criticism and Satire
A Reddit clip of the meeting sparked a flurry of reactions. One user questioned Ranbir’s suitability to portray Lord Ram in an upcoming project, saying, “I wonder how wonderfully he will play Lord Ram after hearing his ‘Sawaals.’” Another commented on Alia’s apparent reliance on a script and Kareena’s awkward phrasing despite her relatively better command of Hindi.
A netizen sarcastically remarked,
“After hearing this bunch speak, I truly believe they’re actors. Real actors.”
Honoring Raj Kapoor’s Centennial
The primary objective of the meeting was to celebrate the legacy of Raj Kapoor, fondly remembered as the “Showman of Bollywood.” The Raj Kapoor 100 Film Festival, running from December 13 to 15, 2024, will feature screenings of 10 iconic films across 40 cities, including classics like Aag, Barsaat, Awara, Shree 420, and Mera Naam Joker.
Prime Minister Modi lauded Raj Kapoor’s enduring contributions, stating:
“Raj Kapoor’s 100th birthday is an important milestone of Indian cinema’s golden journey. It began with 1947’s ‘Neel Kamal’ and we are on course to 2047. It is such a contribution to the country when we look back at this journey of 100 years… In the diplomatic world, we talk a lot about soft power. And at a time when this phrase didn’t even exist, Raj Kapoor Sahab established India’s soft power all over the world. It was his big service to India.”
What are your views on Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Kareena Kapoor’s struggle with Hindi? Let us know in the comments.
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