Thai television actors Fourth Nattawat Jirochtikul and Gemini Norawit Titicharoenrak have apologised after a game segment on a Thai late-night show, in which they acted out the phrase "Bollywood Hero", drew heavy criticism from Indian viewers who accused them of reducing Bollywood and Indian dance to a caricature.
What happened
The controversy began during a charades-style game on "A Thai Late-Night Show", hosted by Katanyu Sawangsri. Fourth, who was blindfolded, had to guess the phrase "Bollywood Hero" while Gemini gave him clues through gestures without speaking. As Gemini tried to communicate the clue, Fourth made exaggerated head and neck movements, stretched out his arms and used dramatic expressions, and also sang "Dhoom Machale" while trying to guess the answer — but could not identify the phrase.
A short clip of the exchange spread across social media, drawing criticism from Indian viewers who felt the gestures relied on stereotypes of Indian dance and culture. Gemini also faced criticism because he was seen laughing and applauding as Fourth acted out the clue.
The apologies
Fourth issued an apology on X on October 8, saying he had always supported equality and diversity and had no intention of mocking any race. He acknowledged that his actions during the game had hurt some viewers and specifically apologised to Indian fans, adding that the incident would be an important lesson for him.
Gemini followed with a statement on the morning of October 9, acknowledging that the footage may have caused discomfort or misunderstanding. He said he had no intention of mocking, insulting or looking down upon any country, culture or community, and assured fans he would be more careful about his actions going forward.
Sources:
- Thai actors Fourth Nattawat, Gemini Norawit apologise to Indian fans over 'Bollywood Hero' gestures row — Times Now
What happened
The controversy began during a charades-style game on "A Thai Late-Night Show", hosted by Katanyu Sawangsri. Fourth, who was blindfolded, had to guess the phrase "Bollywood Hero" while Gemini gave him clues through gestures without speaking. As Gemini tried to communicate the clue, Fourth made exaggerated head and neck movements, stretched out his arms and used dramatic expressions, and also sang "Dhoom Machale" while trying to guess the answer — but could not identify the phrase.
A short clip of the exchange spread across social media, drawing criticism from Indian viewers who felt the gestures relied on stereotypes of Indian dance and culture. Gemini also faced criticism because he was seen laughing and applauding as Fourth acted out the clue.
The apologies
Fourth issued an apology on X on October 8, saying he had always supported equality and diversity and had no intention of mocking any race. He acknowledged that his actions during the game had hurt some viewers and specifically apologised to Indian fans, adding that the incident would be an important lesson for him.
Gemini followed with a statement on the morning of October 9, acknowledging that the footage may have caused discomfort or misunderstanding. He said he had no intention of mocking, insulting or looking down upon any country, culture or community, and assured fans he would be more careful about his actions going forward.
Sources:
- Thai actors Fourth Nattawat, Gemini Norawit apologise to Indian fans over 'Bollywood Hero' gestures row — Times Now
