Disrespecting Identity Isn’t Funny”: YouTuber Elvish Yadav’s Remarks on Actor Stir Controversy

Ziya Khan February 12, 2025Last Updated: February 12, 2025

Amid the controversy surrounding podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia’s remarks, YouTuber Elvish Yadav has landed in trouble for making objectionable comments about actor Chum Darang. The Arunachal Pradesh Women’s Commission chairperson, Kenjum Pakam, has written to the National Commission for Women (NCW), urging action against Yadav for his derogatory remarks. During a podcast appearance, Yadav mocked Chum Darang, calling her name “vulgar,” while also making disparaging comments about her achievements. Responding to the remarks, the 33-year-old actor wrote on Instagram, “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.” She further expressed disappointment, saying, “This wasn’t just about my ethnicity. My hard work and a film backed by a visionary like Sanjay Leela Bhansali were also disrespected.”Chum Darang, known for her roles in Bollywood films Gangubai Kathiawadi and Badhaai Do, was also targeted for her relationship with actor Karan Veer Mehra. Yadav remarked, “Karan Veer definitely had COVID because who even likes Chum? Whose taste is that bad? Chum’s name sounds so vulgar… and she has worked in Gangubai Kathiawadi.” The comments quickly sparked outrage, leading Yadav to release a clarification video that only intensified the backlash. In the video, Yadav dismissed the criticism, claiming, “People are so foolish. I meant Karan Veer might have COVID, lost his sense of taste and smell, and that’s why he likes Chum.”Kenjum Pakam, chairperson of the Arunachal Women’s Commission, condemned Yadav’s remarks in her letter to NCW chief Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar.

“His comments insult Ms. Darang and the women of Northeast India. Such behavior creates fear and marginalization for Northeast women pursuing careers in Bollywood,” she wrote, urging immediate action.This is not Yadav’s first controversy. Previously, he faced backlash for remarks against actors Kusha Kapila and Arjun Bijlani. Last year, he was arrested for allegedly shooting videos with poisonous snakes and hosting rave parties involving snake venom and drugs. He was later released on bail.