Farah Khan, the Bollywood choreographer and filmmaker, has recently addressed criticism regarding a comment she made towards her cook, Dilip. The comment, "zyada mat udo" (don't fly too high), was perceived by some as condescending, leading to online backlash.
The controversy began after a vlog where Farah Khan and Karan Johar were seen at the premiere of Karan’s film Homebound. During this event, Karan teased Farah, saying, “I want to say no one is more popular than Dilip. Dilip zyada aage nahi chala gaeya? (Didn't Dilip went ahead?)” Farah jokingly responded, “What about me?” to which Karan quipped, “No, no”.
However, a troll questioned Farah’s "zyada mat udo" comment for Dilip, which prompted Farah to respond, clarifying her intent. Farah has not directly addressed this specific comment in recent articles. However, she has previously addressed the dynamic of her relationship with Dilip in the face of criticism.
In the past, viewers have objected to how Dilip is treated in Farah's vlogs. Some have felt that the scripted bits where Farah jokingly threatens to fire Dilip or where Dilip complains about his salary are disrespectful. Others have criticized guests on her show for their behavior towards Dilip. For example, casting director Mukesh Chhabra received backlash for rudeness and manhandling Dilip in one episode.
Despite the occasional criticism, Dilip has become a popular figure in his own right, with many viewers enjoying his "innocent yet unfiltered persona". His popularity has grown since he began appearing in Farah's vlogs, with some even playfully terming Farah's championing of Dilip as "domestic nepotism". Farah herself has acknowledged Dilip's rising fame and joked about needing to work extra to keep up with his increasing salary.
In response to concerns about their relationship, Farah has shown support for Dilip, defending him against perceived slights and even warning against impersonators on social media. She has also shared anecdotes about discovering Dilip and highlighted his contributions to her vlogs.
Furthermore, Farah has clarified previous comments that were misinterpreted as digs towards actress Deepika Padukone. In one instance, a comment about Deepika's "8-hour work shift" was misconstrued as criticism, but Farah explained that it was actually directed at Dilip, encouraging him to work longer hours. She stated the comment was to make Dilip work for 8 hours instead of 2. Farah has also stated that she and Deepika share a close bond and that rumors of a rift between them are unfounded.
Ultimately, Farah seems to be taking the criticism in stride, using it as an opportunity to clarify her intentions and reiterate her appreciation for Dilip's presence in her life and vlogs.
