Slumdog Millionaire star Freida Pinto on playing non-Indian roles: Such a controversial subject...

Freida Pinto paused from her jury duties at the Red Sea Film Festival to engage in a candid conversation. During the interview, she spoke about her career, global cinema, and her aspirations for the future.

Freida Pinto opens up about her life post the success of Slumdog Millionaire

Having gained international acclaim for her starring role in Danny Boyle's Slumdog Millionaire (2008), Freida Pinto said that she has consistently embraced a global perspective on cinema. Rather than confining herself to stereotypical roles, she expressed, “I’ve always looked at cinema globally.” Post-Slumdog, where she could have easily taken on predominantly Indian roles, she chose a different path, seeking out challenging characters beyond her cultural identity.

Freida Pinto on embracing diversity through challenging roles

In an interview with Variety, she said that she consciously played characters from various backgrounds, such as Iranian or Arab women, challenging the norm and breaking away from conventional casting. Reflecting on her portrayal of a Palestinian girl in Miral, Freida Pinto acknowledged the controversy surrounding such casting decisions today. She explained, “I now see that’s why they chose me, but at the time I thought: I can see myself as x, y and z, and I feel that in me too.”

While recognising the evolving landscape of the industry, Pinto stands by her earlier choices. She expressed pride in films like Miral that opened doors and brought attention to underrepresented regions. However, she clarified that her perspective has evolved over time, and she wouldn't make the same choices today. Despite the changing narrative, she said that she is proud of the impact these films had in raising awareness.

Freida Pinto on Bollywood's global presence

Having played a pivotal role in bringing Bollywood to the forefront of Western culture, Pinto shared her experiences in Saudi Arabia, where Bollywood stars are celebrated with immense adulation. She highlighted the universal appeal of Bollywood, especially in the Middle East and Northern Africa. Pinto explained, “Bollywood is all over the region. The Middle East and Northern Africa. I believe it’s also huge in Japan.” She attributed this global resonance to the magical escapism that Bollywood cinema offers, focusing on universal themes of family, love, and culture.

Pinto expressed her admiration for Bollywood's unique ability to provide escapism. She stated, “I think what really works is the escapism, which is something Bollywood cinema does best.” According to her, the magic lies in the representation of family values, love, and cultural richness that immediately resonate with audiences in the Middle East.