Mera gown, mera Desh!

"Just saw Priyanka Chopra presenting Oscar award. Extremely pissed after knowing that she wore a gown designed by a foreigner. These Miss India types only talk of the country and support on stage. After that they forget." That's a message I got this message from an industrywalla somewhere in the middle of Oscar ceremony.

I was amused. I knew this day was coming from the moment her name was announced as the presenter. I was certain that if she picked a western outfit over a saree, a section of people would feel angry, betrayed and let down (because we are so tolerant). I suspect she knew it too. And yet she sashayed down the red carpet in her white gown, not caring about the shit storm that was sure to follow. Bravo. No one gets to tell a girl what to wear.

Don't understand why her gown is a topic for national debate. I am sure Bhakts want to label Priyanka anti-National. For, while Namo is promoting Make In India, she wore a garment made by a Lebanese designer. Freida Pinto, also an Indian, has been wearing gowns to every function for years now. And no one cried foul. For some reason we hold B-town actresses to a stricter code or conduct (or dress).

I'd like to remind those who are feeling offended on behalf of Indian designers, that they often dress Hollywood divas, why no rage then? Oh yeah, good old double standards.

Priyanka Chopra is the lead actress of one of the highest rated tv shows of last year. She's been in magazines, on Billboards and page 3. Everyone who watches the show knows she is an Indian. Whether she wear a bikini or burkha, won't change that fact. So can everyone stop acting like the Khap and shut the f**k up.