The Teufa – Times of India Film Awards – held in Mumbai was anticipated as a glamorous evening dedicated to celebrating the brilliance of Bollywood.

However, the event took a surprising twist when Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, took to the stage for an introductory speech.

Instead of the warm applause typically reserved for a member of the British royal family, she was met with a resounding chorus of boos from the audience.

This unexpected reaction quickly made its way onto social media, igniting a storm of discussions and news coverage.

For many, it symbolized a dramatic shift in public sentiment towards Markle, who was once considered a refreshing addition to the royal family.

What could have led to such a public display of discontent directed at Meghan?

The incident raises questions about her and Prince Harry’s ongoing challenges in maintaining a connection with the public.

When Meghan married Harry in 2018, she was celebrated as a modern and progressive figure, breaking stereotypes within the traditionally rigid royal family.

Her biracial background, feminist advocacy, and Hollywood ties were seen as evidence of the monarchy’s evolution to meet contemporary values.

Initially, the couple enjoyed widespread popularity as they emerged as a new royal duo.

However, their decision to step back from royal duties in 2020 and relocate to California marked the beginning of a decline in their public approval.

Their explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey, where they alleged racism within the royal household, further complicated their relationship with both the British press and the public.

The incident at Teufa appears to be yet another indication that the goodwill they once enjoyed is fading.

Many observers interpret the booing as a backlash against Meghan and Harry for distancing themselves from royal responsibilities.

Royal commentator Emma Pearce suggests that there is a perception that the couple wants the perks of royal life without the accompanying obligations.

“It seems the Indian audience wanted to send a strong message that they’re not impressed by that,” she stated.

However, some analysts argue that the audience’s reaction might not stem solely from Meghan’s reputation in Britain but could also relate to her perceived disconnect with Indian culture.

As a high-profile member of the British royal family, Markle was invited to play a ceremonial role at the Teufa event.

Yet, her speech, which emphasized the significance of storytelling and cinema, felt out of place amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Bollywood.

Indian film critic Anjali Sharma noted that Meghan may not have grasped the tone expected by the audience.

“They were looking for lively performances and dynamic announcements, not a solemn discourse on the arts,” she explained.

Her earnest yet subdued remarks simply didn’t resonate with the exuberant crowd.

Moreover, Markle’s unfamiliarity with Indian customs and traditions may have fueled the negative reception.

To many Indians, she represents an outsider who has done little to engage with or appreciate the country’s rich cultural heritage.

“There’s a sense that Meghan embodies Western ideals without a true understanding of Indian society,” remarked Mumbai journalist Priya Sharma.

Some viewed her presence as an attempt to appropriate a culture she doesn’t genuinely belong to.

That said, not everyone agrees with this viewpoint.

Some believe that the boos reflected Markle’s divisive public persona rather than any cultural disconnect.

“Let’s not kid ourselves; Meghan is a contentious figure, and many in that audience likely booed her for political reasons, not cultural ones,” Pearce argued.

She has become a focal point for various grievances, both justified and otherwise.

Regardless of the motivations behind the audience’s reaction, the Teufa incident has undeniably impacted Meghan and Harry’s public image.

What was meant to be a celebratory occasion turned into a moment of reckoning for the couple, illustrating the complexities of their relationship with the public.

As they navigate their new lives away from royal duties, the question remains: can they regain the favor they once enjoyed, or is this just another chapter in a saga of diminishing goodwill?