Actor Nani has sparked an online debate after suggesting that women should bring back braided hairstyles, saying people are becoming too influenced by Western culture, states NDTV.
The actor made the remarks during a promotional interaction for his upcoming film The Paradise in Karnataka.
Nani was discussing his character Jadal, who sports a braided hairstyle in the film, when he encouraged women to return to the traditional look.
Nani pointed to a female reporter at the event and noted that she was not wearing a braid. He recalled how mothers traditionally braided their daughters’ hair and said he felt people were increasingly influenced by Western culture. He also expressed hope that his character Jadal would help start a new trend.
The conversation took a lighter turn when another reporter pointed out that men are also increasingly growing their hair.
Nani recalled seeing girls with thick hair during his school days and linked braiding and oiling hair with stronger hair. He suggested that women should braid and oil their hair to achieve hair like his character.
Another reporter joked that women might have taken his advice more seriously if he had actually grown his hair for the film instead of wearing a wig.
Nani laughed at the remark. When she pointed out that women today often do not have enough time to maintain their hair, he acknowledged her point.
The exchange later drew mixed reactions online. While some users found the interaction amusing, others criticised Nani for suggesting that women should return to wearing braids.
One social media user questioned why the actor was concerned about women’s hairstyles, while others pointed to the time and effort required to maintain braided hair.
Some users also turned the discussion towards men’s clothing and hairstyles, while others blamed factors such as hard water for changes in hair quality. One user simply questioned why men have so many opinions about women’s choices.
The Paradise stars Nani, Kayadu Lohar, Mohan Babu and Raghav Juyal. Directed by Srikanth Odela, the film is scheduled to release in theatres on 24 September.
