Janhvi Kapoor sets the record straight on her role in Param Sundari
Bollywood actor Janhvi Kapoor is currently gearing up for the release of her upcoming romantic comedy Param Sundari. Directed by Tushar Jalota and featuring Sidharth Malhotra as the male lead, the film is slated for release on August 29. While the film promises a breezy rom-com experience, its trailer has stirred unexpected controversy, particularly regarding Janhvi Kapoor’s portrayal of a South Indian girl.
Following the trailer launch, several voices from Kerala, including Malayalam actor-singer Pavithra Menon and content creator Steffi, criticized the casting of Janhvi, accusing the makers of falling into stereotypical portrayals of Malayali characters. The accent and mannerisms displayed in the trailer became talking points on social media, prompting debates about representation in Bollywood.
Janhvi’s clarification on her character’s roots
In a recent interview with ET Digital, Janhvi Kapoor responded to the criticism and offered clarity about her role. “Of course, I’m not a Malayali, and neither was my mother,” Janhvi explained. “But my character in Param Sundari is actually half-Tamilian and half-Malayali. I’ve always been very interested in that terrain and that culture, and I’m also a huge fan of Malayalam cinema as well. So yeah, I think it was just a very fun, interesting story, and I’m so happy and grateful that I could be a part of it.”
She further added that the decision to take up this project stemmed from her own longing for a light-hearted film. “I was at a point in my life where I myself, more than an actor, but as a member of the audience, was dying for just a rom-com. A light-hearted romantic movie where you have a smile on your face the entire time you are watching. Here was a story that gave me the chance to go towards my roots.”
A film about cross-cultural romance
Param Sundari tells the story of a Delhi boy and a Kerala girl who fall in love despite cultural differences. While the premise is simple, it aims to highlight the beauty of India’s diversity and the humor that often arises in cross-cultural relationships. Alongside Janhvi and Sidharth, the film also stars Rajeev Khandelwal and Aakash Dahiya in key roles.
Produced by Dinesh Vijan, the film marks another collaboration between Vijan and Tushar Jalota after the latter’s successful stint as a director. The makers describe Param Sundari as a “refreshing romantic comedy with strong cultural undercurrents.”
Love for Malayalam cinema
Janhvi also took the opportunity to express her deep respect for Malayalam cinema, which has gained international acclaim in recent years for its strong storytelling and nuanced performances. “I’ve always admired the craft and authenticity in Malayalam films,” Janhvi said. “The kind of cinema they are making—whether it’s realistic family dramas or thrillers—has set such a high benchmark.”
By clarifying her character’s mixed South Indian heritage, Janhvi hopes to quell misconceptions that she or the film’s team intended to stereotype Malayalis. She stressed that her role required careful preparation, including learning cultural nuances to portray her character with authenticity.
Release and expectations
With its release date approaching, Param Sundari is generating buzz as a feel-good entertainer—something that has been missing from Bollywood’s mainstream slate in recent years. Romantic comedies, once a staple of Hindi cinema, have been overshadowed by high-concept action dramas and biopics. Janhvi believes this film will bring back the charm of classic rom-coms, offering a refreshing escape for audiences.
Whether Param Sundari silences critics or fuels further debate remains to be seen. But Janhvi’s heartfelt defense of her role shows her commitment to understanding and respecting cultural diversity on screen.
