The city’s social media scene is abuzz with talk about foreigners being given preferential treatment at pubs and restaurants. Some say these are self-inflicted acts of racism, while others say they’ve never seen it happen. Are namma Chennaiites really that obsessed with white people?
“I’m not really sure why a single Indian man cannot enter clubs while a foreigner is allowed to. If it’s because he’s white, then it is definitely racism,” says DJ Vinod Karthik. “I’ve also noticed that some people believe that stags may misbehave with women in their establishments, but there really is no guarantee that a white man won’t, is there? I’ve been looked up and down when I go to certain places because of my complexion, and that’s extremely uncomfortable for me,” he adds.
On the other hand, Shireen Saadiya Ali, a stand-up comedian in the city has never witnessed anything out of the ordinary — “Maybe in some scenarios they’re treated specially because, let’s face it, people think they look better — but on the other end, autorickshaw drivers scam them! There are two sides to every coin. I also think the prejudice in clubs, is because foreigners are much more open and social than Indians who believe they’ll get kidnapped the moment they step out. So, expats are more likely to make more friends.”
Apolline Thry, an exchange student from France, also feels like there isn’t any difference in behaviour, “We get free drinks on ladies nights but it’s definitely not because we’re foreigners. Of course, we are hit on more, but I don’t think there’s any difference otherwise. We’ve worked hard towards integrating ourselves into the community here, so we don’t really want the conduct to be any different.”
Marc Antoine Deville who is also here on an exchange programme says, “Maybe the women get treated differently, but not men. It’s the same for all of us. Although, I have noticed that they let me cut queues in stores,” he laughs. He goes on to explain, “I think it’s because people here are more curious about us. At first, no one speaks to you but if you engage them in conversation, the people are very warm.”
Bablu, the business manager at Zara The Tapas Bar, says, “We believe in equal treatment for all — be it foreigners, VIPs or celebrities. It’s the same procedure for all. However, I have seen other places where foreigners are welcomed in a special manner. I think it’s because competition is huge nowadays, and having foreigners who bring other friends along is a bonus. It’s good for business and attracts more people.” It’s time we party as equals and not let our skin colour overshadow a good time, don’t you think?
