Influencer Ranveer Allahbadia Issues Public Apology Amid Backlash Over Controversial Remark on YouTube Show

New Delhi, February 10, 2025: Popular social media influencer Ranveer Allahbadia, also known as BeerBiceps, has issued a public apology following massive backlash over a controversial remark he made on Samay Raina’s YouTube reality show, India’s Got Latent. The comment, deemed inappropriate and offensive by many, sparked outrage, leading to calls for a ban on his podcast and even a police complaint filed by a BJP functionary against the show’s creators, judges, and participants.

During an episode of the show, known for its edgy, boundary-pushing content, Allahbadia asked a contestant a question related to parents and sex, which many found distasteful. The clip quickly went viral, drawing widespread criticism from the public, politicians, and prominent figures in the creative industry.

In a video posted on X (formerly Twitter), Allahbadia admitted his mistake, stating, “Comedy is not my forte. Just here to say sorry.” He further added, “Obviously, this is not how I wish to use my platform. I am not going to give any context, justification, or reasoning behind whatever happened. I, personally, had a lapse in judgment. It wasn’t cool on my part.” Allahbadia, who boasts over 10.5 million YouTube subscribers, 4.5 million Instagram followers, and 600,000 followers on X, emphasized that he takes full responsibility for his actions. “Family is the last thing I would ever disrespect. I promise to just get better. I’ve asked the makers to remove the insensitive sections from the video. I hope you can forgive me as a human being.”

The controversy drew strong reactions from political leaders across party lines. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis remarked, “Everyone has the freedom of speech, but our freedom ends when we encroach upon the freedom of others. Action should be taken against such violations.” Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate called the comment “perverse,” stating, “This isn’t creative. It’s perverted. We can’t normalize such behavior as cool.” Shiv Sena leader Raju Waghmare issued a stern warning, “Such language is unacceptable in the land of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. We won’t tolerate the misuse of free speech.” Writer Neelesh Misra criticized the broader content ecosystem, commenting, “Meet the perverted creators shaping our country’s creative economy.”

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has announced that it is reviewing the matter following the police complaint against the show’s creators and participants. Meanwhile, social media platforms are flooded with posts condemning Allahbadia and the show, with hashtags like #UnfollowBeerBiceps and #BoycottIndiaGotLatent trending on X. Users are calling for accountability, with many unsubscribing from both Allahbadia’s and Raina’s channels. Some accuse the influencers of negatively impacting India’s cultural values, urging the promotion of content that respects traditional heritage.

Interestingly, Allahbadia was among the recipients of the National Creators Award presented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year. He had also partnered with the Digital India Corporation to interview Cabinet Ministers, highlighting his significant role in India’s digital ecosystem.

As the controversy unfolds, legal proceedings may follow based on the complaints filed. Platforms may come under scrutiny regarding content moderation policies, especially for shows accessible to younger audiences. The incident has sparked broader debates about the responsibility of online creators in shaping public discourse, with all eyes now on Ranveer Allahbadia, Samay Raina, and the platforms that host their content.