India's long-running obsession with English accents continues to fuel debates about identity, class, and belonging.
Communication experts argue that accent-based judgments reflect lingering colonial attitudes rather than language proficiency.
Whether English is spoken with a regional influence or a foreign twang, Indians often find themselves subjected to scrutiny over how they sound.
Speakers with accents shaped by their mother tongue are frequently criticised for speaking "poor" English, while those who sound British or American are accused of being pretentious.
The issue was recently explored in an article published by The Indian Express.
Among the examples cited was journalist Stanly Johny, who recalled being advised to address his "heavy Mallu accent" after moderating a session in Chennai. Johny defended speaking English with a Malayali influence, noting that non-native English speakers around the world are rarely expected to sound like native speakers.
Journalist Azeefa Fathima also pointed to what she described as a double standard in the way accents are perceived. While foreign accents are often considered attractive or sophisticated, Indian language influences on English are frequently looked down upon, she argued.
Communication coach Sukhi also challenged assumptions about how Indians should sound when speaking English. Responding to a social media comment suggesting he was the first Indian speaker the commenter had heard without an "Indian accent", he noted that there is no single Indian accent and that English has evolved into a global language spoken in diverse ways across the world.
Observers say the debate is no longer only about language.
Accent often serves as a marker of education, social status, and opportunity, making the issue closely tied to class and aspiration.
Many also trace it to India's colonial past, arguing that ideas about "correct" English continue to be shaped by attitudes inherited from British rule. Even those who mock foreign accents often place undue importance on how English should sound.