Veteran actor Anupam Kher, known for his decades-long contribution to Indian cinema, made a heartfelt statement during his recent appearance at the Cannes Film Festival. In a world where appearances and polished accents often take center stage, Kher chose to celebrate his humble beginnings and Hindi-medium education, asking audiences to focus on the substance of his message rather than the perfection of his English pronunciation.
Speaking at a prestigious platform during the ongoing festival, Anupam Kher openly acknowledged that his command of English may not match those who were educated in elite, English-speaking institutions. But rather than viewing this as a limitation, the seasoned actor turned it into a moment of pride, emphasizing that language should never overshadow the intent, depth, and honesty of communication.
“I come from a Hindi-medium background,” he said with confidence. “So, if my English isn’t flawless or if I pronounce certain words differently, I hope you’ll look past that and listen to what I truly mean. What I bring to the table is my lived experience, my craft, and the stories of millions of people like me—not polished accents.”
The actor’s remarks were met with applause and appreciation, not just from those present at the event but also across social media, where fans and supporters praised him for speaking up about an issue that many from non-English-speaking backgrounds face daily—especially in global, elite spaces like Cannes.
Kher reflected on his early struggles when he entered the film industry with no connections, minimal resources, and a strong Hindi foundation. He recalled how, back in the day, English fluency was often viewed as a mark of intelligence or sophistication. “But intelligence doesn’t come from how well you speak English—it comes from your thoughts, your emotions, your empathy, and your courage to tell stories that matter,” he noted.
Now an internationally recognized actor with acclaimed performances in both Indian and global films, Anupam Kher’s humility and self-awareness stood out at a festival that often emphasizes glamour and gloss. Instead of trying to fit into a mould, Kher chose to stand tall in his identity, representing not just himself but millions of Indians who have carved successful lives despite societal bias toward English fluency.
“This moment is not just about me,” he said. “It’s about everyone who has been told they aren’t enough because they don’t speak a certain way. Today, I stand here at Cannes to say you are more than enough. Your voice matters, even if it doesn’t come with a Western accent.”
Kher’s powerful message has touched a chord with many, reigniting a conversation about linguistic elitism and the importance of embracing one’s roots with pride. At a time when global inclusivity is more important than ever, his words serve as a reminder that authenticity, sincerity, and talent will always outshine superficial polish.
As he continues to represent India on international platforms, Anupam Kher remains an inspiration—proof that success is not defined by the language you speak, but by the stories you tell and the passion you bring to your journey.
