Vir Das Claps Back at Critic Who Called Him and Diljit Dosanjh ‘Mediocre Artists’

Actor and stand-up comedian Vir Das has addressed comments made by Kartikeya Tanna, who claimed that he and singer Diljit Dosanjh are “denigrating India” at international events. Tanna referred to them as “very, very mediocre artists” and “useful idiots.”

The Critic’s Comments

In his post on X (formerly Twitter), Tanna questioned why Das and Dosanjh have gained global fame, stating, “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.”

He 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 which seeks to puncture India’s soft power, and as long as they do that, they’re reaping rewards.”

Vir Das’s Response

Vir Das responded to Tanna’s remarks by saying, “I love conspiracy nuts (Smiley emoji). I also love the insinuation that one has suddenly been propped up. 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.”

He added, “I’ve done so for fifteen years. Mediocrity aside, my audience props me up. And when it comes to India and pride, I think my audience is mature enough to know honest conversations are the highest form of love. Cheers.”

Vir’s Upcoming Tour

Das is set to embark on his Mindfool World Tour, covering 33 countries.His upcoming shows are scheduled for cities including Copenhagen (Denmark), Paris (France), Amsterdam (Netherlands), Berlin (Germany), Oslo (Norway), and Singapore.In addition to the tour, he will host the International Emmy Awards in New York this November.

Diljit’s Global Performances

Meanwhile, Diljit Dosanjh is currently on his Dil-Luminati Tour, performing internationally. After wrapping up his overseas concerts, he will begin the Indian leg of his tour on October 26 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. The tour will then proceed to cities such as Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Pune, Kolkata, Bangalore, Indore, Chandigarh, and Guwahati.