The Indian internet is on fire (again), and this time, the outrage is directed at comedian Samay Raina, YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia (a.k.a. BeerBiceps), and influencer Apoorva Mukhija (Rebel Kid). The latest episode of India's Got Latent, a YouTube show hosted by Raina, has sparked a massive controversy that even the government decided to step in—because apparently, this is what needs urgent attention in the country.
What Actually Happened? (And Why Is Everyone Screaming?)
During the episode, Ranveer Allahbadia made a joke that was deemed inappropriate by a section of the audience, sparking accusations of obscenity. Apoorva Mukhija, in response to a contestant's comment, clapped back with a bold retort—one that some called "vulgar" while others hailed as "badass." But let’s be real: if this was an American talk show, we’d all be laughing, calling it "unfiltered comedy."
India has always had a complicated relationship with comedy. It seems like every other week, a comedian is in trouble for hurting someone’s “sentiments.” Kunal Kamra, Munawar Faruqui, Agrima Joshua—the list goes on. Now, it's these three under the sword.
Predictably, all hell broke loose. Outrage, internet fights, callouts—the whole circus. The backlash became so intense that the government stepped in, ordering the removal of the episode from YouTube. Because, of course, this was the national crisis that needed solving.
The Government’s Selective Outrage: Priorities, Much?
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room. Why does the government suddenly care so much about a YouTube show? India has actual problems—rising unemployment, inflation, a crumbling healthcare system—but sure, let’s police jokes instead.
The speed with which they reacted to this is almost comical. When hate speech is being thrown around, when politicians make deeply offensive remarks, or when real crimes against women happen, there’s silence or "investigations are ongoing." But the moment a comedian and a couple of influencers say something slightly controversial? BOOM. Immediate action. This double standard is as blatant as it is exhausting.
Unemployment is rising—but let’s focus on Ranveer’s joke.
Women’s safety remains a critical issue—but sure, let’s get Apoorva canceled.
Inflation is making life unbearable—but let’s make national headlines about a reality show comment.
Unemployment is rising—but let’s focus on Ranveer’s joke.
Women’s safety remains a critical issue—but sure, let’s get Apoorva canceled.
Inflation is making life unbearable—but let’s make national headlines about a reality show comment.
Who Are These People and Why Are They Always in Trouble?
Samay Raina: The Rebel of Indian Comedy
A stand-up comedian and YouTuber, Raina co-won Comicstaan Season 2 and built a loyal fanbase with his unfiltered, often politically incorrect humor. He’s known for pushing boundaries, which obviously means he’s constantly on the receiving end of outrage. In a country where comedy is under attack, he's one of the few comedians still taking risks.
Ranveer Allahbadia (BeerBiceps): From Motivational Guru to Controversy Magnet
BeerBiceps is a fitness and self-improvement YouTuber turned podcaster who somehow ends up in controversies every other month. He’s been called out for everything—from pushing pseudo-science to glorifying hustle culture. This time, though? He’s facing backlash for a joke that, honestly, wasn’t even that deep.
Apoorva Mukhija (Rebel Kid): The Internet’s New Villain (or Hero?)
Apoorva Mukhija is an influencer known for her bold, unapologetic takes. She’s quick-witted and doesn’t hold back—which is exactly what landed her in trouble this time. Her response to a contestant’s comment wasn’t exactly "sanskari," but was it really offensive? Or are people just not used to seeing women stand their ground in public spaces?
The Internet’s Verdict: A Nation Divided (Again)
The internet is in full civil war mode, as expected. Some people are losing their minds over the so-called “indecency,” while others are calling out the hypocrisy. Here’s a snapshot of what Twitter (X) has to say:
@user1: "Freedom of speech doesn't mean freedom from consequences. If you're going to make offensive jokes, be prepared for the backlash."
@user2: "The government's selective outrage is glaring. Where is this swift action when real issues plague the nation?"
@user3: "Comedy is subjective. What's funny to one might be offensive to another. Let's not criminalize humor."
@user4: "Politicians jumping on this controversy is just a distraction from their own failures. Focus on governance, not jokes."
@user5: "If we start censoring comedians, where does it end? Today it's jokes, tomorrow it's any form of dissent."
The irony? Most of the outrage isn't even from people who regularly watch these creators. It’s from those who just saw a 10-second clip on Twitter and decided to have an opinion.
Why Are Politicians Jumping on This Bandwagon?
Ah yes, the political vultures have arrived. Politicians, who usually have nothing to do with digital content, have jumped into the debate, milking this controversy for all it’s worth. Some are demanding legal action (yes, really), while others are using this as an opportunity to push their “moral values” narrative. The whole thing reeks of performative outrage.
Where was this energy when actual criminals were let off the hook? When people in power made sexist or casteist remarks? Oh right, conveniently missing. But a YouTube joke? Yes, THAT requires immediate government intervention.
The Bigger Picture: What This Means for Freedom of Speech
This controversy isn’t just about three internet personalities. It’s about the ever-shrinking space for humor and free speech in India. Every few months, there’s a new target—last year, it was stand-up comedians, before that, it was filmmakers, and now, it’s podcasters and influencers. The message is clear: stay within the lines, or get cancelled (or worse, arrested).
The real problem? Nobody knows where the line is anymore. One day, a joke is acceptable. The next day, it’s a crime. And if this continues, soon, we’ll all be living in a world where the only acceptable form of comedy is nursery rhymes.
Final Thoughts: Can We Just Chill?
Look, not everyone has the same sense of humor, and that’s okay. If you don’t like a joke, move on. Nobody is forcing you to watch it. But do we really need full-blown legal action over it?
This isn’t just about Ranveer, Samay, or Apoorva. It’s about the bigger issue—our growing inability to take a joke. It’s about a government that’s more interested in censoring YouTube than fixing real problems. It’s about a culture that gets outraged selectively, only when it’s convenient.
So maybe, just maybe, let’s direct our outrage where it actually matters? And in the meantime, let comedians do their jobs without the constant threat of cancellation, lawsuits, or government crackdowns.
Because at this rate, the only jokes left in this country will be the people running it.
Below are some posts that I personally agreed with:
People calling out Apoorva by abusing her. Now, that's some ironical shit Indians would never admit to.
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