In a recent move that has sparked outrage among traditionalists, Starbucks India finds itself in hot water over its latest “woke” commercial. The controversial advertisement, which features parents meeting their transgender daughter at a Starbucks location, has led to calls for boycotts and heated debates across the nation.

Critics argue that Starbucks India has taken a page out of the “woke” playbook, likening their approach to that of Bud Light, a brand known for its over-the-top, politically correct messaging. The advertisement portrays a father grappling with his child’s transition but ultimately accepting it by ordering a drink for his transgender daughter using her new name. In a tweet accompanying the video, Starbucks India declared, “Your name defines who you are – whether it’s Arpit or Arpita. At Starbucks, we love and accept you for who you are. Because being yourself means everything to us. #ItStartsWithYourName.”

However, this message of acceptance and inclusion has ignited a firestorm of criticism. Prominent political commentator Rukshan Fernando took to Twitter, stating, “Starbucks facing a backlash in India after going full Bud Light. If saturating the market with a mediocre US coffee brand wasn’t bad enough, now they are bringing their woke corporate culture to the Sub-Continent.”

One concerned citizen voiced their apprehensions, expressing, “It is deeply disconcerting to witness the rapid erosion of cultural identity in our current era. Certain liberal forces persistently normalize practices that appear to undermine the very fabric of our cherished traditions and deeply held values. The pace at which this unsettling phenomenon unfolds is cause for genuine alarm. It is NOT a coincidence. It is a deliberate strategy.”

Another loyal Starbucks customer weighed in, perplexed by the company’s choice to venture into such controversial territory. “I am a huge Starbucks fan. I virtually spend thousands of rupees in their coffee shop every year. But still, I can’t believe why @StarbucksIndia would launch a woke campaign in the name of advertisement? Can’t they just market their coffee and service to India? Their service is the best in the world. Who designs such campaigns to guilt trip people, which don’t appeal/apply to even 0.1% of Indians? Perhaps I should shift my allegiance to Thirdwave coffee, which has better coffee and equally good service and interiors like #Starbucks.”

The backlash continued with calls to protect Indian cultural values, as one person cautioned, “What are you promoting @Starbucks…Don’t promote such culture…we don’t want any lessons on the acceptance of such immoral values…we are Bharatvasis & we are very proud of our civilization and culture…we aren’t some #BollywoodVultures to Promote such culture. Abstain from such Ads #KaranJohar.”

Critics argue that Starbucks’ approach may alienate a significant portion of the population. They question the wisdom of such advertising tactics, with one disgruntled individual stating, “I don’t understand why brands do this…these ads alienate huge portions of the population. What ever happened to common sense advertising? Videos like this alienate more customers than they bring in. Literally throwing advertising dollars in the trash just to virtue signal.”

It’s important to note that this is not an isolated incident. The spread of “woke” culture from America to other parts of the world has raised concerns among traditionalists. Starbucks India’s latest ad serves as yet another example of this phenomenon, as countries look to adopt these newfound cultural norms.

In conclusion, Starbucks India’s “woke” commercial has ignited a passionate debate about cultural values and corporate messaging. As the world grapples with changing social norms, the fallout from such controversies serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by businesses attempting to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of public opinion.