Update: Foodpanda apologizes over Bollywood-themed video, says it’s ‘not a Deepavali ad’
Food delivery platform Foodpanda is under fire for not featuring any Indian talents in its Bollywood-themed advertisement ahead of Deepavali celebrations.
Hundreds of viewers have accused the platform of cultural appropriation after its “Pollywood” advertisement released ahead of a major festival for the Indian community showcased Indian culture but with a nearly all-Malay cast. The only minority representative visible in the 30-second video was Sean Lee, who is of Chinese descent.
“An actual cultural appropriation,” Twitter user Thanasakthinair said about the video.
“An Indian-style ad by a German-owned company, done for the Malaysian market, featuring not one single person of Indian ethnicity in it. Were you TRYING your best to go for cultural appropriation, [Foodpanda Malaysia]?” Willworkforpork said.
Some thought the video was a prank.
The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Seven people, including actresses Adibah Noor and Nadia Aqilah, were dressed in colorful traditional Indian costumes and filmed dancing and singing while promoting Foodpanda’s group orders.
“Don’t you know, you can enjoy eating together… with Foodpanda’s group order,” Adibah sang.
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