Bollywood star Alia Bhatt found herself at the centre of a series of jokes and roast comments during the opening episode of the second season of ‘India’s Got Latent’, prompting widespread discussion across social media.
The episode, hosted by comedian Samay Raina, featured Alia and Sharvari Wagh as guest judges ahead of the release of their upcoming film ‘Alpha’.
A contestant appeared on stage dressed as former US President Donald Trump and directed a series of jokes at Alia. When the actor stumbled slightly while reading the contestant’s form, he remarked, “Someone give her a script and a director.”
Although the audience laughed, Alia remained largely restrained and offered little response throughout the performance.
At one point, the contestant said, “Thank God there isn’t another Ranbir here.” Alia appeared momentarily confused before he clarified that he was referring not to her husband, Ranbir Kapoor, but to YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia. The comment referenced controversy involving Allahbadia and Raina during the programme’s first season.
Later in the episode, Raina asked Alia why she had been so quiet. She replied that she had been surprised by the contestant’s performance and was unsure how to react.
When it came time to score the contestant, Alia awarded him 10 out of 10 and admitted she had felt somewhat uncomfortable and under pressure throughout the exchange because the situation had been unexpected.
Viewers’ debate over the episode has also extended to Alia’s public relations strategy, with some social media users suggesting that her appearance left her unnecessarily exposed to criticism.
Others, however, argued that the controversy had ultimately generated additional publicity for ‘Alpha’, which is already attracting significant attention ahead of its release.
