Anupam Kher shares powerful "I am Indian" video, pushes back against stereotypes misconceptions
Mumbai, June 19
Veteran actor Anupam Kher on Friday shared a powerful video titled "I Am an Indian", addressing what he described as common stereotypes and misconceptions about Indians while highlighting the country's cultural legacy and global contributions.
In the video, Kher can be seen responding to a range of perceptions surrounding Indians, including civic behaviour, employment, culture and public celebrations. Through a series of pointed observations, he contrasted these criticisms with India's achievements and the role Indians play across the world.
Speaking about accusations of lacking civic sense, Kher argued that such judgments often ignore similar incidents elsewhere. "I am an Indian and everyone says I lack civic sense. They can overturn cars, burn streets and vandalise a city after a championship game... I dance at an airport excited about my first foreign trip and suddenly I am the face of poor civic sense," he said.
The actor also addressed the debate around employment, saying Indians who work abroad succeed through hard work and merit. "I study, compete, earn a visa, work 18 hours a day, sometimes multiple jobs and somehow, I am the one stealing jobs and scamming the system," he remarked.
Kher went on to speak about the global presence of Indians, saying they contribute across sectors, including technology, healthcare, education and business, while questioning why that visibility is often viewed negatively.
Meanwhile, Anupam Kher is busy with the shows of his latest play 'Jaane Pehchaane Anjaane'.
'Jaane Pehchaane Anjaane' stars Kher alongside actress Swaroop Sampat and has been written and directed by Gajendra Ahire.
The musical features compositions by veteran singer and composer Anu Malik, marking his stage debut.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While I appreciate the sentiment, I think we also need to introspect a bit. Yes, we have incredible talent and contributions globally, but we also have issues with cleanliness, traffic discipline, and public behaviour. Instead of deflecting, we should fix these problems first. But yes, the hardworking Indian diaspora is something to be proud of. 🇮🇳
As someone from the US who works with many Indian colleagues, I can say this video is spot-on. The Indian professionals I know are some of the hardest working, most innovative people in tech. The 'stealing jobs' narrative is just lazy anti-immigrant rhetoric. Thank you for making this, Mr. Kher.
The part about 'burning streets after championship' vs. 'dancing at airport' is so true. Also, Indians are saving healthcare systems abroad, especially during COVID, but no one talks about that. We need more celebrities to call out this hypocrisy. Well said, Anupam ji. 💯
I'm from Canada and I think many Indians are amazing contributors to our society. But let's be fair—some stereotypes exist because of real experiences. The key is to judge individuals, not entire communities. The video is a good start but oversimplifies a complex issue.
Kher sahab has been one of the few actors who speaks his mind without fear. This video is a must-watch for every Indian who feels tired of being judged unfairly. From CEOs to doctors, Indians are leading everywhere. Proud to be an Indian! 🚀🇮🇳
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