Indian Americans Look For ‘Indian-ness’ In Films, Says Preity Zinta

MUMBAI-Actress Preity Zinta has shared her perspective on why Indian cinema continues to resonate with audiences living abroad, saying NRIs, particularly those in the US, often hold on to their Indian identity through films and entertainment.

Preity said geographical boundaries do not change the emotional connection audiences have with Indian cinema and stressed that filmmakers need to respect viewers’ time and money by offering meaningful entertainment.

“I think the audience is the same worldwide. You have to give them value for their money and their time. You cannot insult the audience by promising them something and giving them something else,” she said.

The ‘Soldier’ actress said people living outside India can sometimes feel an even stronger need to stay connected to their roots, which is why NRIs often look for a sense of “Indian-ness” in the films they watch.

“People that live outside India in some ways are more Indian than people that live in India. Because you want to hold on to, me included, you know. I want to hold on to what I have and not get lost in another place.”

“So, they definitely look for that Indian-ness,” she added.

At the same time, Preity believes humor has a universal appeal and can bring audiences together, particularly as people cope with increasingly stressful lives.

“But there is no second place for humor. If humor is there and people can laugh about it and a film can entertain you without insulting your intelligence, it’s an all-out winner for everybody,” she said.

“Today, more than ever, it’s a high-stress society, high-stress life. There’s a lot more stress. So, I think comedies are the way to go because people want to just relax and have fun,” Preity concluded.

Preity Zinta is based in Los Angeles and continues to travel to India for her professional commitments, giving her a personal perspective on the experience of living away from India while maintaining a connection with the country and its culture. (IANS)