Vir Das claps back after post calls him, Diljit Dosanjh 'mediocre artistes'

Actor and stand-up comedian Vir Das responded to an X user who said that he and singer Diljit Dosanjh are 'denigrating India' at global events.

In Short

• Vir Das responded to criticism of him and Diljit Dosanjh as 'mediocre artists'
• He emphasised he pays for venues and has performed for over 15 years
• Vir said he values his audience's support and believes in honest conversations about India

Actor and stand-up comedian Vir Das, on Monday, October 7, addressed the remarks of an X user who referred to him and singer Diljit Dosanjh as "very mediocre artistes" and "useful idiots." Vir, 45, gave it back to the person, saying, "I love conspiracy nuts. I also love the insinuation that one has suddenly been propped up. I sell tickets; so does Diljit."

In a recent post, a user questioned why the two artists, Diljit and Vir, have suddenly gained global recognition and high-profile gigs, including personal accolades from international figures like Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

The user wrote, "Have you ever wondered why two very, very mediocre artists—Diljit Dosanjh and Vir Das—have suddenly been propped up to global-scale fame? They’re suddenly benefiting from liaisons with top celebrities and getting gigs at top global events. Justin Trudeau went all the way to Diljit’s concert to welcome him as the 'guy from Punjab' (not India) (sic)."

They continued, "The answer seems obvious—they’re Useful Idiots effectively tasked with denigrating India directly or indirectly (the ‘two Indias’ bit and hobnobbing with Pakistani artists, for example). They’ve acquiesced in following a script that seeks to puncture India’s soft power, and as long as they do that, they’re reaping rewards (sic)."

In response, Vir Das explained that he personally covers rental fees for venues worldwide and has been performing for over 15 years, directly connecting with his audiences. "I sell tickets; so does Diljit. I personally pay rental for every venue I book across the world and go directly to audiences who are kind enough to come see me. I’ve done so for fifteen years," wrote the actor-comedian.

"Mediocrity aside, my audience props me up," he added, emphasising that he values the support of his fans. Vir Das concluded his response by stating, "And when it comes to India and pride, I think my audience is mature enough to know that honest conversations are the highest form of love. Cheers. (sic)."

The actor-comedian will soon be taking the 'Mindfool World Tour' across 33 countries. He is also scheduled to host the International Emmy Awards ceremony in New York in November.

Meanwhile, singer Diljit Dosanjh will soon embark on his Dil-Luminati India Tour. His first Indian concert will take place on October 26 in New Delhi. After Delhi, the singer will visit Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Pune, Kolkata, Bangalore, Indore, Chandigarh, and Guwahati.