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From Saira to Scouser: The evolving representation of white femininity in popular Hindi cinema: 'Representation in Bollywood' Working Paper.

Authors :
Delaney-Bhattacharya, Alexandra
Source :
South Asian Popular Culture. Oct2019, Vol. 17 Issue 3, p319-326. 8p.
Publication Year :
2019

Abstract

It becomes apparent that Preeti's only connection to her Indian roots is the convenient fact she speaks Hindi (a production necessity perhaps, given the film's national audience) and demonstrates complete ignorance towards any of the spiritual, historical or scriptural learning Bharat is keen to instil. Recalling Preeti's ability to speak Hindi as perhaps a production strategy to make her intelligible to the audience, actress Amy Jackson is unable to speak Hindi. The similarities between the two films are striking with regards their movement from the dangerous West to the serene Punjab (remembering that Preeti narrowly escaped a rape attempt in London and Sara has been threatened with kidnap in Romania). As Indian actresses assert themselves in non-Indian film industries and exploit their racial fluidity and universal beauty aesthetic, white actresses are establishing themselves in roles beyond those previously afforded them in popular Hindi film. [Extracted from the article]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
14746689
Volume :
17
Issue :
3
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
South Asian Popular Culture
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
140918714
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1080/14746689.2019.1673543