Amid India’s Got Latent row, Javed Akhtar’s old video slamming use of foul language in comedy goes viral – WATCH

Renowned poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar‘s interview from last year has resurfaced, where he shared his views on the use of explicit language in comedy during an appearance on the Chill Sesh podcast, hosted by comedians Biswa Kalyan Rath, Sapan Verma, and Shreeja Chaturvedi. His comments have sparked a debate about the role of vulgarity in humour.

Discussing the widespread use of curse words in stand-up comedies, Akhtar compared it to adding extra spices to food. ‘’In Odisha, Bihar and Mexico, anywhere in the world where there is poverty, people eat a lot of chilli because the food is bland. So, to add some taste, they eat chilli,’’ he explained. He further commented on the language, stating, ‘’Swearing is the chilli of language. If you can speak well and are funny enough, then you would not need this chili. If the conversation is not interesting, you will use some abusive words to give it some energy.’’

Public reaction on Akhtar’s comment

His statement has reappeared amid controversy related to podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia who has been criticised for using explicit language during a roast show ‘India Got Latent’. Many viewed Akhtar’s words as a critique of the current comedy scene, where foul language takes centre stage.

While many hailed Akhtar’s remark, some also raised issues with his comparison of regional food habits. Responding to his comment about Odisha’s food, a user commented on the social media platform X, ‘’Javed sahab, aao Kabhi Odisha. Neither is the food bland, nor is it laced with chilli. Probably you have never eaten real Odia cuisine.’’

Most of them however praised his criticism of stand-up comedians. Another user summed up his view with a touch of humour: ‘’Saare stand-up comedians ko ek sath roast kar diya’’ (He roasted all the stand up comedians together).

Akhtar’s remarks have sparked a discussion on the evolving nature of humour. While some use of foul language is a crucial tool for modern comedians, others like Akhtar backs the use of wit and intelligence over dependence on crass language.