Let me start by introducing myself, I’m a feminist. I use gender-neutral cuss words (when I absolutely must), and I hate it when others don’t. But let’s be honest, half the time, the cuss words people throw around don’t even make sense. Take “Bhen ki ldi”* For example, what does that even mean? I don’t use it, and this is probably the first time I’m even typing it, a bit weird for me. But hey, I didn’t start this article to talk about cuss words. My main topic is India’s Got Latent, and the chaos that unfolded around it. And let me tell you, I truly agree that whatever happened was wrong. But was it all wrong? Let’s dive in.
For context, India’s Got Latent was a Hindi-language talent show hosted by Samay Raina on YouTube. It had a unique vibe, a quirky rating system, and some genuinely talented contestants. But on February 12, 2025, the show was abruptly cancelled after a controversy erupted over some comments made by Ranveer Allahbadia and Apoorva Mukhija (aka TheRebelKid). All episodes were made private on YouTube, and the internet went into a frenzy.
Now, here’s the tea: A contestant made a questionable remark, something along the lines of, “Why are you having vibrations in your Vagi**a, when you don’t get any sensations there?” (Yes, I’m censoring it because, well, mama didn’t raise me to be that casual with words.) Apoorva, being Apoorva, clapped back with, “Have you even seen a vag*na after getting out of one?” And just like that, the internet exploded. The media dragged it out, the public scrutinized Apoorva, and suddenly, everyone was worried about “Bharatiya sanskriti”.
But let’s pause for a second. The contestant’s remark didn’t become a controversy, Apoorva’s response did. Why? Because defending yourself against an offensive comment is apparently more offensive than the comment itself. Makes sense, right? (Spoiler: It doesn’t.)
Now, let’s talk about the bigger picture. While everyone was busy dissecting Apoorva’s clapback, other things were happening in the world. The air quality index (AQI) was hitting 170 at 7:30 AM. Kids were going to school, old people were on their morning walks, and we were all breathing in the same polluted air. Air doesn’t care about your income, religion, or patriotism. It’s just there, and it’s killing us. But hey, let’s focus on a YouTube show instead, right?
And then there’s the Chhattisgarh High Court ruling that sexual intercourse, including unnatural acts, between a man and his adult wife, even without consent, does not constitute an offense under the IPC. Let that sink in. A woman was killed in a marital rape and murder case, and the court acquitted the husband. Why isn’t this making headlines? Why are we okay with this decision? Consent is the most basic thing. Why is it so hard to understand?
But no, let’s talk about India’s Got Latent instead. Let’s talk about how defending yourself is now a crime. Molestation happens, and people say, “Chhod do, jaane do”. But the moment you defend yourself, it’s a problem. Case karo, cancel karo, hashtag trend karo.
Now, let’s get one thing straight: standing up for yourself shouldn’t be wrong. Apoorva’s language might have been rough, but her point was valid. And if we’re going to cancel people for defending themselves, then we’re setting a dangerous precedent.
So, here’s my take: The media loves a good controversy, and the public loves to be outraged. But let’s not lose sight of the real issues. Let’s not forget that while we’re busy arguing over a YouTube show, the air we breathe is toxic, the justice system is failing women, and hate is spreading like wildfire.
Mama’s Verdict:
If you defend yourself, people will get offended. But if you stay silent, they’ll crush you. So, it’s better to save yourself, no matter what people say. And yes, take care of the pollution too. Wear a mask, drink water, and don’t forget to fight for your rights. Because if you don’t fight, who will?
