Singer Chinmayi Sripaada has stepped forward to defend 10-year-old Ishit Bhatt, a contestant on Kaun Banega Crorepati 17, who has become a target of intense online criticism. Ishit faced backlash after his confident, and some perceived as rude, interactions with host Amitabh Bachchan went viral. The young contestant from Gujarat departed the show without winning any prize money after answering a Ramayana-related question incorrectly.
Social media users have heavily criticized Ishit, labeling him ‘arrogant’ and the ‘most hated kid.’ In response, Chinmayi Sripaada voiced her support, calling the online mob a ‘horrible bunch of bullies.’ She actively shared posts that aligned with her defense of the child.
On X, formerly Twitter, Sripaada expressed her dismay, stating, ‘An adult putting a tweet saying most hated *kid*. Adults here on Twitter have been one of the most lousy, foul mouthed, abusive lot; none of these voices said a thing when kids died due to a cough syrup. But yeah pick on a kid. Says a LOT about the ecosystem.’ She continued, ‘This entire lot is picking on one over excited kid – what a horrible bunch of bullies these have raised themselves to be.’
During the episode, Ishit, a fifth-grader, audibly interrupted Amitabh Bachchan, stating, ‘I’m familiar with the rules, so don’t explain them to me.’ Displaying considerable self-assurance, he even rushed his answers before the host could present the options, at one point exclaiming, ‘Hey, lock in the answer.’
However, Ishit’s confident streak ended on the fifth question, worth Rs 25,000, concerning the Ramayana. His incorrect answer led to his exit from the hotseat, leaving him with no winnings.
The young contestant’s demeanor on the show sparked discussions about parenting. Many viewers commented on the perceived lack of humility and manners displayed by Ishit, suggesting that parents should instill these values. The outcome of not winning any money was seen by some as a potential lesson for the child and his upbringing.