Indian stand-up comedian Abhishek Upmanyu is facing severe backlash after appearing to support a disturbing anti-India comment on social media. The controversy, which quickly went viral, has led to Upmanyu deactivating his X (formerly Twitter) account.
The uproar began when a Pakistani social media user criticized Indian humor and made a sweeping, offensive generalization about the country. In a now-deleted post, the user claimed that India is viewed globally as a “hub of rapists” and said Indians “deserve all the racism” they encounter abroad. The post was made in response to a tweet by internet personality Abhijit Iyer Mitra, who had shared a provocative statement targeting Pakistani women.
To the shock of many, Abhishek Upmanyu replied with a simple yet loaded “Yup” under the hateful comment — a move that many interpreted as an endorsement of the derogatory message. The timing of this interaction has further intensified the outrage, as the country is still grieving the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals.
Social media was quick to respond, with users across the political spectrum condemning the comedian’s perceived stance. Several people expressed disappointment, with one user writing, “Can’t believe someone like Abhishek Upmanyu would agree with such a disgusting generalization about his own country.” Another added, “He sided with someone insulting all Indians, during such a painful time. That says everything.”
The backlash was swift and unforgiving, leading Upmanyu to deactivate his X account entirely. While the comedian has not issued a public statement explaining his actions or clarifying his intent, his silence has only fueled further criticism.
The episode has reignited the ongoing debate around celebrity accountability on social media, especially when it comes to issues of national image and collective grief. With many Indians still in mourning after the recent terror attack, Upmanyu’s apparent agreement with a hostile comment from across the border has touched a raw nerve.
Whether Abhishek Upmanyu will address the controversy or remain offline is yet to be seen. But for now, his digital silence is being read by many as an admission of guilt — and a career misstep that might have long-term consequences.
