Netflix gets legal notice over derogatory remarks about Madhuri Dixit in 'The Big Bang Theory'

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• Mar 28, 2023 | Dhupali Das

A political analyst has filed a complaint against Netflix over an episode of the American sitcom "The Big Bang Theory." He asserts that it uses a "derogator...

Digital Desk: A political analyst has filed a complaint against Netflix over an episode of the American sitcom "The Big Bang Theory." He asserts that it uses a "derogatory word" to refer to Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit. 

In the legal notice, political analyst Mithun Vijay Kumar requests Netflix to remove the first episode of Season 2 in which Kunal Nayyar's character Raj Koothrapalli and Jim Parsons' character Sheldon Cooper compared Aishwarya Rai and Madhuri Dixit.

In the scene in the trouble, Sheldon Cooper refers to Aishwarya Rai as a poor man's Madhuri Dixit. In reaction to his remark, Raj Koothrapalli says, "Aishwarya Rai is a goddess; Madhuri Dixit is a leprous prostitute." 

Kumar called the character's remarks as both inconsiderate and defamatory. He has demanded that Netflix remove the show or face legal action for encouraging discrimination against women. Reportedly, the notice was sent to the Netflix office in Mumbai.

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"My client is deeply concerned about the negative impact that such content can have on society, particularly in perpetuating harmful stereotypes and discrimination against women. This content is not only insensitive but also promotes sexism and misogyny, which is unacceptable in any form," the notice said. 

"It is important to hold organizations like Netflix responsible for their deeds and to make sure that they are mindful of the cultural values and feelings of the populations that they serve. The use of a derogatory word in the Netflix program Big Bang Theory caused me tremendous distress. The famous actress Madhuri Dixit was referred to using this word, which was not only hurtful and offensive but also demonstrated a disregard for her dignity," Kumar said.  

'The Big Bang Theory,' developed by Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady, debuted in 2007 and concluded its 12-season run in 2019.