The Internet Reacts To Alia Bhatt’s “Namaskar” BAFTA 2026 Cultural Flex

Alia Bhatt didn’t need a mic-drop line at the EE BAFTA Film Awards 2026. One simple “Namaskar” did the work, and the clip travelled faster than the red carpet photos. In a room built on British formality, she opened in Hindi, smiled, and owned the pause before switching back to English, making headlines across Latest Entertainment News.
How One Word Turned Into A Global Pop-Culture Beat
On February 22, 2026, Alia stepped on stage at London’s Royal Festival Hall as a presenter for the Best Film Not in the English Language category. The internet’s favourite part is the ease: no apology, no “translation for you guys” energy, just a greeting that signalled where she comes from and where she belongs. Mid-scroll proof: India Today Showbiz clipped the moment.
Fashion folks also clocked the contrast, pairing the greeting with a shimmering Gucci look that read Old Hollywood but still felt unmistakably Alia. Meanwhile, BAFTA chatter stayed global, with winners and big moments dominating headlines.
Why Fans Say It Hit Different
Because it reframed “international” as multilingual, not neutral. And because it landed on a night BAFTA spotlighted non-English cinema loudly, making the greeting feel perfectly timed rather than random.
What Happens Next For Her Global Run
If this is her BAFTA debut energy, expect more Indian signifiers to show up without explanation on bigger stages, in bigger rooms.
FAQs
Did Alia Bhatt actually speak Hindi on the BAFTA stage?
Yes, she opened with “Namaskar” and delivered a short Hindi intro before switching to English.
Which BAFTA category was she presenting?
She presented the Best Film Not in the English Language award category during BAFTA 2026.
When and where were BAFTA 2026 held?
They were held on February 22, 2026 at London’s Royal Festival Hall, at Southbank Centre.
Why are people calling it a cultural flex?
It showed confident Indian identity on a global stage, without apology, translation, or softening edges.
Was her look connected to the moment’s buzz?
Yes, the custom Gucci styling amplified the clip’s virality across fashion and film feeds worldwide.


