New Delhi: Comedian and actor Vir Das has once again stirred debate on social media regarding how Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) perceive India. The discussion was reignited after a user on X (formerly Twitter) criticised Das’ comments in a viral video where he urged “second-generation” NRIs to update their views about India.

Das’ controversial statement

In the video, Das stated, “Any people raised by Indian parents abroad, come on second generation, I say this to you with respect, your parents’ version of India does not exist. It is archaic, it is gone.” The clip originally went viral earlier this year and prompted discussions around the diaspora’s relationship with India.

The X user who reignited the debate argued that Das’ remarks misrepresented NRIs. They contended that those who often lecture Indians about the country’s potential are usually first-generation migrants, not second-generation as Das had implied.

The user wrote, “We see better things here, and inform them of the potential India can achieve, in good faith.” They added, “P.S. Second-generation Indian migrants care least about India, and they mind their lives in the country where they’re born and grew up.”

Vir Das’ response

Das responded directly to the post, offering a detailed rebuttal. “Madam, with respect. I will take any number of lectures about India’s potential from people who live with me here. It’s our job to call out the shortcomings of where we live, relative to where we live,” he said.

He further elaborated, “I don’t need someone in America to tell me we need cleaner air as if a billion people don’t already know that. The notion of ‘they just don’t know any better’ is an archaic entitled NRI notion and reflects an air of superiority. We know, and fight for it, BECAUSE we know.”

Social media reactions

The discussion sparked multiple reactions from users, reflecting the divide in opinions about the diaspora’s role in shaping India’s narrative.

One user wrote, “Dear Vir, NRI stands for Non Resident Indian. They’re still Indians, just staying beyond borders. Just like a Bihari in Mumbai, or a Delhite in Bengaluru can still comment on Bihar and Delhi, so can NRIs talk about India with all love and knowledge.”

Another user added, “Keep your entitled superiority complex with you far away as we are well aware what to fight for and struggle as we live here. We know. We bloody know. Stop your lecture.”

Conclusion

Though the video itself is not new, the recent wave of discussion highlights the ongoing tension between resident Indians and the diaspora over who has the authority to define the nation’s narrative. The debate underscores a broader question of belonging, perception, and the generational divide among Indians both within and outside the country.