Image of Punjabis changing in Bollywood, says Jassi Gill

Punjabi singer-actor Jassi Gill says with actors like Diljit Dosanjh and himself coming to Bollywood, the myth about Punjabis being loud is "changing".

Punjabis have often been presented as foodies and being loud in several Hindi movies like "Shaandaar", "Vicky Donor" and "Veere Di Wedding".

Asked if he sees a change in their image with films like "Phillauri", "Udta Punjab", "Soormaa" that are set in Punjab, Jassi told IANS: "With more introduction of Punjabi actors, our region gets represented rightly. People like me, Diljit, who are born and brought up in Punjab, coming from a Punjabi household, trying to bring certain nuance in our representation."

Though he admitted the fact that the Punjabi community is quite foodie and fun-loving people who love to live life king size but mostly are stereotyped in Bollywood films.

"Since Bollywood films have a larger reach, we are introduced to the mass as loud people who are saying 'oye' in every sentence. That is a stereotype. We have much more to offer, are a land of music, literature, and art," he said.

Jassi says that as a performer they have much more to "offer in films, than just comedy. With the popularity of Diljit (that) perception is changing."

"I hope with the success of our film and my work in 'Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi', people will get to know about us," he added.

"Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi" also features Sonakshi Sinha, Diana Penty, and Jimmy Shergill.

Directed by Mudassar Aziz, the film is slated to release on August 24.