R Madhavan Says Global Perception of Indian Men Has Changed: ‘From Being Avoided to Being Respected’

Actor R Madhavan, who has been part of Indian cinema since the 1990s, believes the global perception of Indian men has undergone a dramatic transformation over the years. In a recent interview, he said that while Indian men were once viewed with suspicion abroad, they are now seen as confident, successful professionals — a shift he feels mainstream movies have not yet captured.

Speaking on BookMyShow’s YouTube channel, Madhavan recalled how white women abroad would earlier avoid Indian men, assuming they were trying to hit on them.
He said the scenario has completely changed: “Earlier, when we visited international bars, white women would look at us cautiously. Today, when an Indian man walks in, four white women approach him thinking he’s an entrepreneur — someone successful they want to talk to.”
Madhavan added that this modern, respected image of Indian men is yet to be represented on screen.

Wants to Work With New-Age Directors

Madhavan said he is keen to collaborate with young filmmakers who are not confined by traditional “filmyness” or industry expectations.
He observed that many still create stories to please mentors rather than narrating fresh, bold ideas that reflect India’s growth story.

“With my years of experience, I want to combine that with the refined storytelling of new directors,” he said, adding that he wants Indian films to depict contemporary realities rather than outdated stereotypes.

Upcoming Projects

Madhavan will next be seen in De De Pyaar De 2. He is also awaiting the release of Dhurandhar starring Ranveer Singh.
So far in 2025, the actor has appeared in Kesari Chapter 2, Aap Jaisa Koi, Hisaab Barabar, and Test.