Actor and stand up comedian Vir Das has replied to a person who said that he and singer Diljit Dosanjh are ‘denigrating India’ at global events. Taking to X (formerly Twitter) an internet user called Vir and Diljit Dosanjh “very, very mediocre artists” and “useful idiots”.
He wrote on X, “Have you ever wondered why two very, very mediocre artists – Diljit Dosanjh and Vir Das – have suddenly been propped up to global scale fame? They’re suddenly benefiting from liaisons with top celebrities and getting gigs at top global events. Justin Trudeau went all the way to Diljit’s concert to welcome him as ‘guy from Punjab’ (not India).”
He added, “The answer seems obvious – they’re Useful Idiots effectively tasked with denigrating India directly or indirectly (the ‘two Indias’ bit and hobnobbing with Pakistani artists, for eg). They’ve acquiesced in following a script which seeks to puncture India’s soft power and, as long as they do that, they’re reaping rewards.”
Giving a befitting reply, Vir Das stated, “I love conspiracy nuts (Smiley emoji). I also love the insinuation that one has suddenly been propped up. I sell tickets, so does Diljit. I personally pay rental for every venue I book across the world, and go directly to audiences who are kind enough to come see me.”
He also added, “I’ve done so for fifteen years. Mediocrity aside, my audience props me up. And when it comes to India and pride, I think my audience is mature enough to know honest conversations are the highest form of love. Cheers.”
