Controversy has erupted around the YouTube series 'India's Got Latent' following offensive remarks made by its judges, particularly influencer Apoorva Makhija. The uproar began after Makhija and fellow panelists Ranveer Allahbadia and Ashish Chanchlani aired their comments during the latest episode, prompting calls for accountability.
On February 10, 2025, a formal complaint was filed against Makhija, Allahbadia, comedian Samay Raina, and the show’s organizers with the Mumbai Commissioner and Maharashtra Women’s Commission. The complaint accuses them of using derogatory language and inappropriate jokes targeting women. The remarks, delivered under the guise of humor during the episode, sparked outrage online and drew significant media attention.
The complaints articulated concern over the nature of the humor presented, arguing it demonstrated blatant disregard for women’s dignity and might negatively influence young audiences, particularly minors. One of the notable comments from Makhija, responding to a contestant's comment about 'vaginal sensation', caused substantial backlash. "Kabhi vagina dekhi hai maa se nikalne ke baad?" she remarked, translating to “Have you ever seen a vagina after exiting your mother?” This clip quickly went viral, with many viewers deeming it not only offensive but also morally indefensible.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis weighed in on the firestorm, asserting the importance of free speech but stressed its limitations; he emphasized the necessity of respecting others’ rights. Former National Commission for Women (NCW) chief Rekha Sharma also condemned the remarks, describing them as damaging to society and particularly impactful on impressionable youth.
Shiv Sena spokesperson Raju Wagamare echoed these sentiments, warning producers of 'India's Got Latent' to expect immediate repercussions if such language continues. He insisted on taking action to prevent future harm to viewers.
The incident has sparked broader discussions surrounding the responsibility of online content creators, highlighting the fine line between comedy and obscenity. Digital influencers like Makhija, widely recognized on social media platforms, leverage their popularity to engage with millions, which raises the stakes for their public statements.
Now known as 'The Rebel Kid', Makhija has built her career on edgy humor and candid commentary, initially rising to fame during the COVID-19 pandemic. With over 2 million followers on Instagram and substantial influence, she collaborates with leading brands, making her culpability more significant. Her participation this time around has drawn fierce criticism, with many blaming her for not speaking up against tasteless remarks made by her fellow panelists.
The backlash against Makhija has been substantial, with viewers pointing out her laugh following Allahbadia’s crude question, “Would you rather watch your parents have sex for the rest of your life—or would you join in once and stop it forever?” Critics argue such statements contributed to pushing the envelope too far.
Social media has erupted, calling for accountability not just from Makhija and Allahbadia but for the show's producers as well, asking why such content is allowed to circulate unchecked on public forums like YouTube. Comments from users on various platforms reflect growing frustration over what they perceive as deteriorated comedic standards, with many calling for rigorous regulations on online content.
Despite the outrage, some defend the series, asserting freedom of expression and leaving it to viewers to choose what they consume. Proponents argue, “If you don’t like it, don’t watch it,” emphasizing the need for humor to exist without censorship.
Meanwhile, as pressure mounts, some involved have issued apologies. Ranveer Allahbadia took to social media to acknowledge his errors, stating, “I personally had a lapse in judgement... Wasn't cool on my part.” To date, Makhija has not publicly commented on the backlash.
This incident has ignited discussions not just about the episode itself but also about the roles influencers play in shaping societal norms and discussions, particularly when they utilize public platforms directed at younger demographics.
'India's Got Latent', hosted by Samay Raina, has seen its audience explode, garnering millions of views on episodes often marked by boundary-pushing content. The exchange of ideas on the platform has been interpreted by some as necessary dialogue, but the latest fallout underlines the responsibilities tied to such influence.
The question now looms: how far should comedy go, and at what point does it become harmful? The controversy surrounding 'India's Got Latent' may lead to more stringent examinations of the content presented under the banner of humor and its potential effects on society.
With calls for action echoing louder, the future of this show—and possibly many others like it—hangs tenuously as authorities deliberate over the path forward. How will this shape content creation moving forward? Only time will tell.