‘Chennai Express on Steroids’: Janhvi Kapoor & Sidharth Malhotra’s ‘Param Sundari’ Trailer Sparks Mixed Reactions

Bollywood has found its latest talking point with the release of the much-anticipated trailer for Param Sundari, starring Janhvi Kapoor and Sidharth Malhotra. Dubbed by some as “Chennai Express on steroids,” the high-octane action-romance has already started polarising audiences.

The trailer showcases a blend of action, romance, comedy, and exaggerated drama, with a plot that seems to follow a whirlwind love story intertwined with larger-than-life stunts. However, the “over-the-top” portrayal has sparked a wave of debate, especially regarding the depiction of South Indian culture, which some critics say leans heavily into stereotyping.

The movie’s backdrop is set in vibrant South Indian locales, but the costumes, accents, and cultural cues have drawn mixed reviews. While fans are praising Janhvi Kapoor for her glam-meets-action avatar and Sidharth Malhotra for his intense presence, detractors argue that Bollywood is once again packaging clichés instead of authentic representation.

Director Rohit Shetty, known for his signature masala filmmaking style, has been both lauded and criticised for his approach. Supporters believe the film is unapologetically entertaining and will be a box office crowd-puller, while critics call it a flashy spectacle with little originality. The social media chatter has amplified, with hashtags like #ParamSundariTrailer and #BollywoodStereotypes trending within hours of release.

Adding fuel to the conversation is the film’s soundtrack, which features foot-tapping dance numbers, high-energy beats, and visuals designed to appeal to mass audiences. The title track “Param Sundari” is already being called a chartbuster, though some feel it panders to the “item song” formula Bollywood refuses to let go of.

The controversy over stereotyping is not new for Hindi cinema. From Chennai Express to Housefull, the portrayal of South Indian characters has often been reduced to exaggerated accents, overdone mannerisms, and a heavy dose of caricature. Param Sundari appears to walk that same tightrope — offering vibrant visuals but risking cultural insensitivity.

Industry insiders, however, believe that the film is designed to be a festival release crowd magnet, banking on star power, catchy music, and loud, colourful storytelling. Janhvi Kapoor, speaking about the project, said she enjoyed exploring a character with a mix of glamour, grit, and dance, while Sidharth Malhotra highlighted the film’s action-packed sequences as a major USP.

Still, many film lovers are questioning whether Bollywood can move beyond these formulaic portrayals and embrace more nuanced cultural storytelling. As the release date nears, the buzz — both positive and negative — only seems to be working in the film’s favour.

If nothing else, Param Sundari proves one thing: in Bollywood, controversy still sells tickets. And if early trends are to be believed, audiences might just show up in droves — stereotypes and all.