Starbucks India stirred controversy and faced calls for boycotts following the release of a commercial set in India that sparked objections, particularly from the right-wing community. The company drew criticism for its latest promotional campaign, which portrayed parents meeting their transgender daughter at a Starbucks outlet.
In the video, a father initially grapples with accepting his daughter’s transition but eventually embraces it by ordering a drink for her under her new name. Starbucks India shared the video on Twitter with the caption, “Your name defines who you are – whether it’s Arpit or Arpita. At Starbucks, we love and accept you for who you are. Because being yourself means everything to us. #ItStartsWithYourName.”
The advertisement faced significant backlash, with political commentator Rukshan Fernando tweeting, “Starbucks facing backlash in India after adopting a full Bud Light approach. Introducing a mediocre US coffee brand to the market wasn’t bad enough; now they bring their woke corporate culture to the Subcontinent.”
In Starbucks India’s comment section, one user expressed dismay, stating, “It’s deeply concerning to witness the rapid erosion of cultural identity in our era. Certain liberal forces persistently normalize practices that seem to undermine our cherished traditions and values.”
Another user questioned Starbucks India’s marketing approach, commenting, “I’m a huge Starbucks fan and spend thousands of rupees in their coffee shops annually. But I can’t comprehend why @StarbucksIndia would launch a woke campaign under the guise of advertising? Can’t they just promote their coffee and service in India?”
A different comment criticized the promotion of what they deemed “immoral values,” asserting, “What are you promoting @Starbucks… Don’t endorse such cultural shifts… We don’t need any lessons on accepting such immoral values… We are Bharatvasis, and we take pride in our civilization.”
“I don’t understand why brands do this… these ads alienate huge portions of the population. Whatever happened to common-sense advertising? Videos like this alienate more customers than they attract. Literally wasting advertising dollars just to virtue signal,” expressed another disgruntled individual.
Watch the controversial ad here:
America has exported woke culture all around the globe, and Starbucks India just provided yet another example of this phenomenon. Since the end of World War II, the United States has been the global hegemon of liberalism, and many other nations have sought to mimic its cuIture.
Netflix Series Declared ‘The Ultimate Show’ by Fans
Enthusiastic viewers are raving about a Netflix series, describing it as the ‘finest show they’ve ever watched,’ with many unable to resist revisiting it repeatedly.
The series has earned widespread acclaim, with fans praising its captivating storytelling and remarkable performances. Many have been binge-watching all five seasons, unable to get enough.
From the very first episode, viewers were hooked. One fan shared: “It’s the most exceptional show in recent years: packed with action, authenticity, drama, deception, love, and suspense… it encompasses all the elements to keep you engrossed. The lead cast’s performance is exceptional!”
Another viewer declared: “This is one of the greatest series I’ve ever watched. A profoundly impactful show. I adored it. The acting was outstanding. I recommend this series to everyone.”
A third fan added: “A friend recommended this series to me, and I must say it was worth it. As I started watching, I grew increasingly curious about what will unfold next. It’s truly engrossing.”
A fourth comment read: “I adore this show. I’ve been following it since Season 1 and have never been let down – astounding performances by the actors.”
A fifth fan wrote: “It’s my preferred television show. Crafty, scheming, and brilliant characters. Unforeseeable. Sufficient twists, turns, and side stories to hold your attention.”
The series was brought to life by director Joshua John Miller and writer M.A. Fortin, who collaborated to create this acclaimed show.
This American crime drama is adapted from the Spanish-language telenovela “La Reina del Sur,” itself based on a novel by Arturo Pérez-Reverte. The lead role is portrayed by Brazilian actress Alice Braga, known for her work in “Dark Matter” and “I Am Legend.” She stars alongside Peter Gadiot and Mexican actress Veronica Falcón.
The original series, which aired on USA Network, holds an impressive score of 8/10 on IMDb and 68% on Rotten Tomatoes.
The show’s synopsis reads: “Teresa escapes Mexico after the death of her drug-running partner. Upon settling in Dallas, she aims to become the country’s top drug smuggler and seek retribution for her lover’s murder.”
The critically acclaimed series draws inspiration from the novel “La Reina del Sur,” which is based on the real-life story of female drug kingpin Marllory Chacón. Known as the “Queen of the South” by Guatemalan media, Chacón turned herself in to U.S. authorities in 2014.
While the series first premiered in 2016, it continues to attract new fans who eagerly immerse themselves in its five seasons.
Lead actress Braga spoke to Forbes about the importance of the show’s representation: “It’s crucial to have Latinos in front of the camera because… when they watch the show, they can identify with it.”
She added: “There’s a vast Latino community, but if we lack Latinos in the director’s chair, in the writing room, in the decision-making spaces, such as executive producers, then we miss out on certain narratives told from that perspective.”
Despite its devoted fanbase, “Queen of the South” concluded after its fifth season. This decision came as USA Network shifted its focus away from original productions.
Fortunately, viewers can still stream the entire series on Netflix.
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