YouTuber Dhruv Rathee has weighed in on the controversy surrounding podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia’s remarks on Samay Raina’s show India’s Got Latent, which sparked widespread outrage. Following intense backlash, Mumbai police filed a complaint against the show’s creators, and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also demanded action. Rathee did not hold back in his criticism, calling out the trend of using offensive language under the guise of “dank” comedy. He made it clear that he has “always been strongly against abusive and vulgar language” and pointed out that in over a thousand videos, shorts, and reels he has created, “you won’t find a single abusive word for anyone.” He slammed the show’s approach, saying, “What is being done today in the name of dank comedy is pure nonsense. The only purpose is to shock and disgust audiences for views, which is having a disastrous impact on the moral development of our youth.” However, Rathee opposed the idea of government censorship, warning that bans could lead to excessive restrictions on content. Instead, he urged people to hold creators accountable and demand better content. Comparing India’s Got Latent to controversial films like Animal, he argued that such shows contribute to the “moral decay of society” and need to be called out. See the post: I’ve always been strongly against abusive and vulgar language. In the 1000+ videos, shorts and reels that I have made, you won’t find a single abusive word for anyone. What is being done today in the name of dank comedy is pure nonsense. The only purpose is to shock and disgust… — Dhruv Rathee (@dhruv_rathee) February 10, 2025 The post went viral with over 2 million views and lots of comments by users expressing their views. One user suggested, “Films have got Rating system, so kids or families are aware of content type, but this show hasn’t, it should deemed under 18+.” Another user commented, “You’ve taken a principled stand on maintaining decency in content, which is commendable. Shock value for views is indeed harming societal values. While bans aren't the solution, raising awareness and demanding better content is the way forward. Responsible creativity should always be encouraged.” A third person wrote, “all good but “need to pressurize” is probably not the correct framing also, i did not watch animal but do IGL, it has become a cultural phenomenon.” Hours before Rathee’s post went up, Allahbadia uploaded an apology video, admitting that his remarks on the show were a “lapse of judgment”. Allahbadia, Raina, and several other artists have been booked by the Maharashtra cyber police for allegedly sharing obscene content on the show. This marks the second FIR against them in a short span. Assam Police registered an FIR against the makers earlier this week. A senior officer, speaking to The Indian Express , confirmed the case and stated that authorities have invoked Section 67 of the IT Act, which deals with the “transmission of obscene material in electronic form,” along with other charges. In total, 30 people have been booked over the use of explicit and offensive language during the show.
