The Bombay High Court delivered a sharp rebuke to YouTuber and former Bigg Boss contestant Vikas Pathak, also known as Hindustani Bhau, for filing what it deemed a frivolous petition against filmmaker Farah Khan. The court made it clear that it saw Pathak’s move as a publicity stunt rather than a legitimate legal grievance.
Background of the Case
Pathak had filed a plea seeking the registration of an FIR against Farah Khan for allegedly derogatory remarks made about the Hindu festival of Holi. The remark — referring to Holi as a "festival of chhapris" (a slang term implying show-offs or lowbrow behavior) — was made during an episode of Celebrity MasterChef earlier this year.
His petition claimed that the comment:
-
Hurt religious sentiments,
-
Incited public outrage,
-
Threatened communal harmony.
Despite these claims, no FIR had been registered, prompting Pathak to approach the court.
Court’s Response
The division bench of Justices Ravindra Ghuge and Gautam Ankhad responded sharply:
-
They questioned why Pathak was “so deeply hurt”, advising him not to be overly sensitive.
-
They suggested his intent was to gain headlines, stating:“We have more than 200 matters listed... You bring such matters to court... For what? For publicity?”
-
Dismissing the logic behind taking offense, the court added humorously:“She has called chhapri, but you are not a chhapri. You are a gentleman. So why are you hurt?”
Humorous Advice
In a light-hearted tone, the judges recommended that Pathak watch educational channels like National Geographic or Travel & Living, saying it might “make him happy” and offer a more balanced perspective.
Outcome
Faced with the court’s admonition, Pathak withdrew his petition, which was filed through advocate Ali Kaashif Khan.
Implications
-
The case underscores how courts are increasingly pushing back against performative or publicity-driven legal actions, particularly by public figures or influencers.
-
It also highlights judicial concerns about misuse of legal processes to amplify personal agendas or to fuel outrage culture.
