Chef Wan insults Thaipusam with derogatory remarks against Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Datuk Redzuawan Ismail, popularly known as Chef Wan, is facing criticism after making inappropriate comments about the dress worn by former Miss World and esteemed international actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

Recently the Namaste Bollywood Instagram page shared a reel of the actress striking poses with stunning dress on the Cannes Film Festival red carpet.

In the comments section, Chef Wan playfully suggested that she seemed to be “embarking on a Kavadi procession, en route to the Batu Cave Taipusam ceremony.”

“She carrying Kavadi on herself heading to the Batu Cave Taipusam ceremony,” Chef Wan said.

In Hindu tradition, devotees offer kavadi to Lord Muruga as gratitude once their prayers and pledges are fulfilled, symbolizing thanks, while in Tamil “Kavadi” translates to “carrying on the shoulder.”

Aishwarya graced the Cannes Film Festival red carpet for the second time this year, captivating onlookers in a gown by the designer duo Falguni Shane Peacock.

The 50-year-old actress exuded glamour in a shimmering blue-and-silver ensemble as she attended the screening of acclaimed filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos’ latest masterpiece, “Kinds of Kindness,” featuring two-time Oscar winner Emma Stone.

The gown’s exquisite detailing included a sweeping train and dramatic shoulders embellished with metallic fringe.

The chef’s remarks sparked backlash from online users, who levied accusations of racism against him.

“With all due respect Datuk, I don’t think this is very nice to say. I understand you can’t comprehend what she is wearing Sir but pls don’t relate it to the religious event and mock it… Did not expect this from you,” an Instagram user named @sreeganeshnair said.

“Please respect all religions and religious beliefs. What if somebody relates this to your religion? Would you accept it? Put yourself in others’ shoes before commenting.

“You did something sensitive in this harmonic country where people of various races live.

“Also, please note that Thaipoosam isn’t a ceremony; it’s a prayer thing. I would appreciate it if you could apologise for this matter and remove this comment. Thank you,” another Instagram user named @blxcklion.01 said.