Actress Kashika Kapoor has said that actors should be recognised for their performances rather than judged for their language or accent, responding to criticism faced by South Indian actors working in Hindi films.
Speaking exclusively to IANS, Kashika said, “I think this happens quite often, but an actor should ultimately be recognised as a performer. Language should never become a barrier. We shouldn’t divide the industry by saying this is the Telugu film industry or this is the Hindi film industry.”
She was referring to Rashmika Mandanna, who revealed on Koffee With Karan that she had faced criticism over her accent throughout her career. Rashmika said her South Indian background naturally shaped her accent and that she wanted to work across multiple languages rather than limit herself to one industry.
Defending Rashmika, Kashika said, “She is a wonderful actor and performer, and I don’t think anyone should judge her based on her language or accent. That is also a part of her identity and what makes her unique.”
Kashika added that Rashmika had been part of major films, including Animal, and said actors should be appreciated for their talent rather than judged for their accents.
