Social media influencer Elvish Yadav is facing backlash after allegedly making “derogatory and racist” remarks about Chum Darang, a former Miss Arunachal and participant in Bigg Boss 18. The comments were made during a podcast with fellow contestant Rajat Dalal. However, on Saturday, Elvish took to social media to clarify his statements, stating that his words were taken out of context and have been removed from the episode.
Addressing the controversy on his platform X (formerly Twitter), Elvish wrote, “A statement from my podcast is being taken out of context and presented in a misleading way. There was never any intention to target or insult anyone. I have always believed in respect and inclusivity, and those who know me understand that I have nothing but love for everyone. It’s unfortunate that a false narrative is being created, completely misrepresenting my words. This whole issue is based on false allegations of racism, which is simply not true. To avoid further misinterpretation, the statement was removed from the podcast, and I also addressed the clarification in my next vlog. I have always stood for positivity and inclusivity and will continue to do so.”
A statement from my podcast is being taken out of context and presented in a misleading way. There was never any intention to target or insult anyone.I have always believed in respect and inclusivity, and those who know me understand that I have nothing but love for everyone.…
— Elvish Yadav (@ElvishYadav) February 15, 2025
In the podcast, Elvish Yadav reportedly mocked Chum Darang and actor Karanveer Mehra, saying, “Karan Veer ko pakka COVID tha kyuki Chum kisko pasand aati hai bhai, itna taste kiska kharab hota hai. Aur Chum ke naam mai hi ashleelta hai. My name is Chum, and I am from Gangubai, Kathiawadi.”
(“Karan Veer must have had COVID; otherwise, who would like Chum? Who has such terrible taste? Chum’s name itself contains obscenity. Her name is Chum, and she worked in the film ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi.’”)
Chum Darang responded strongly to these remarks on her Instagram Stories, writing, “Disrespecting someone’s identity and name is not ‘fun.’ Mocking someone’s achievements is not ‘banter.’ It’s time we draw the line between humour and hate. What’s even more disappointing is that this wasn’t just about my ethnicity—my hard work and a film backed by a visionary like Sanjay Leela Bhansali were also disrespected.”
The controversy has sparked widespread debate on social media, with many calling for greater sensitivity and accountability in online content creation.
