Popular YouTuber and podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia has spoken publicly about the controversy surrounding his show India’s Got Latent. During a recent “Ask Me Anything” session on social media, Allahbadia addressed the impact the incident had on his personal and professional life, as well as how he is moving forward.
Responding to a fan’s question about what he had lost as a result of the controversy, Allahbadia listed a range of issues. “Health, money, opportunity, repute, mental health, peace, parents’ contentment and much more,” he wrote. Despite these challenges, he also described the period as one of growth and introspection, saying the experience led to “transformation, spiritual growth” and increased mental resilience.
Allahbadia added that he is now focusing on regaining what was lost. “Will slowly work towards getting back everything that’s lost. Let the work speak,” he said, suggesting a renewed commitment to his career and public platform.
He also reflected on the emotional toll of the backlash, particularly its effect on those around him. In another post, he spoke about the fears he faced in recent months. “That I let down the families of my team members because of my mistake,” he wrote. “People don’t understand how many jobs were at stake. [They] quickly wrote off my career and hence the career of 300+ people.”
He went on to say the experience gave him a deeper understanding of human nature, stating, “Mobs love seeing people fall. But we will keep moving forward.” Allahbadia admitted he is still recovering emotionally, saying, “I am not 100% okay even now. Have to give it my all because MANY livelihoods depend on my work.” He concluded the post by urging followers to “stay humble.”
The controversy began earlier this year during an episode of India’s Got Latent, in which Allahbadia posed an inappropriate question to a contestant: “Would you rather watch your parents have sex every day for the rest of your life or join in once to make it stop forever?” Although the panel, which included Apoorva Mukhija and Ashish Chanchlani, reacted with laughter at the time, the question received widespread condemnation online.
The backlash intensified as multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) were filed against Allahbadia and the show’s creators. The matter escalated further when the National Commission for Women (NCW) intervened, demanding accountability. In response, Allahbadia issued a written apology.
The case also reached the Supreme Court of India, which granted him interim protection from arrest. However, the court criticised his remarks, labelling them “vulgar” and stating that they reflected a “dirty mind” that shamed society.
Despite the severity of the fallout, Allahbadia has now returned to his work. In a recent video statement titled “Dear India,” he asked viewers for another chance and promised to take greater responsibility for the content he produces.
“We will improve our podcast quality,” he said. “Like every week, four episodes will come out, focusing on India’s rich history, culture, and personal growth topics.”
With his podcasts now resuming, Allahbadia appears determined to rebuild his reputation through consistency and quality. His public comments mark the first time he has directly addressed the full personal cost of the controversy, while also indicating a long-term plan for redemption through professional dedication.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.