Samay Raina's comeback with India's Got Latent Season 2 has sparked a massive online debate after he relentlessly roasted Alia Bhatt and Sharvari during their Alpha promotions. The episode, which aired on June 21, 2026, delivered viral moments ranging from jokes about Jigra and Cannes to Alia admitting she was "kind of regretting" being there. While some viewers hailed Samay's fearless humour, others felt the show had lost the raw, unfiltered magic that made Season 1 a phenomenon.
Alia Bhatt and Sharvari Face the Roast
During the promotions for their upcoming film Alpha, Alia Bhatt and Sharvari appeared on India's Got Latent, expecting a light-hearted chat. Instead, Samay Raina launched into a series of sharp jokes targeting Alia's previous film Jigra and her frequent appearances at the Cannes Film Festival. Alia, visibly taken aback, responded with nervous laughter and eventually admitted she was "kind of regretting" her decision to participate. The moment quickly went viral, with clips circulating across social media platforms.
Fan Reactions: Divided Over the Show's Direction
The episode has divided fans of the show. Many praised Samay Raina for maintaining his signature unfiltered style, arguing that the roast was in line with the show's original spirit. "This is exactly why we loved Season 1 – no one is safe," one fan tweeted. However, others criticized the comedian for crossing a line, claiming the jokes felt forced and lacked the organic charm of the first season. "Season 1 had a raw, unfiltered magic. Now it feels like they're trying too hard to be controversial," a viewer commented on Reddit.
India's Got Latent Season 2: A New Format
India's Got Latent Season 2, which premiered earlier this month, has introduced several format changes. The show now features a dual-platform release, airing simultaneously on streaming services and television. This move has broadened its audience but also drawn criticism for diluting the intimate, underground feel that defined Season 1. According to a source close to the production, the team aimed to retain the show's edgy humour while expanding its reach. However, the Alia Bhatt episode has become a flashpoint for debates about the show's evolution.
Samay Raina Defends His Approach
In a brief statement following the episode, Samay Raina defended his comedic style, stating that the show has always been about pushing boundaries. "I respect Alia as an actor, but on this show, no one gets a free pass. That's the deal," he said. The comedian also noted that Alia took the jokes in good spirits, despite her initial regret. "She laughed along, and we had a great time. It's all in good fun," he added.
Impact on Alpha Promotions
The controversy has inadvertently boosted attention for Alpha, with many viewers tuning in to see the roast. The film's promotional team has not commented on the incident, but industry insiders suggest the buzz could work in their favour. "Any publicity is good publicity, and this has put Alpha in the headlines," a marketing analyst noted. However, some critics argue that the roast overshadowed the film itself, reducing its promotion to a side note in a larger controversy.
Looking Ahead: What's Next for India's Got Latent?
As India's Got Latent Season 2 continues, the show faces the challenge of balancing its irreverent roots with mainstream expectations. Upcoming episodes are set to feature other celebrities from the film industry, and producers are reportedly considering adjustments based on fan feedback. Whether the show can recapture the magic of Season 1 remains to be seen, but for now, the Alia Bhatt episode has ensured that India's Got Latent remains a topic of heated discussion across social media.
