In a recent turn of events, actor Bijou ThaangJam has found himself at the center of a social media storm following his comments on discrimination within the Indian film industry. ThaangJam, a Manipur-based actor known for his roles in films like ‘Mary Kom’ and ‘Shivaay,’ recently took to his X account to express his discontent with the treatment he received during the production of the movie ‘Jigra,’ which stars Alia Bhatt and Vedant Raina. Despite its high-profile star cast, ‘Jigra’ did not fare well at the weekend box office, adding another layer to the unfolding drama.
On October 15, 2024, Bijou ThaangJam posted a series of tweets highlighting the irony of experiencing racist and discriminatory comments after raising concerns about discrimination. He remarked, “The irony is truly remarkable. I speak up about discrimination, and suddenly I’m met with a flood of racist and discriminatory remarks.” His comments appeared to be directed at the fans of Alia Bhatt, who had reacted unfavorably to his critique of the film production’s management and systemic issues.
ThaangJam, who is also known for his versatility as a chef, lyricist, art director, and entrepreneur, did not hold back in his censure of the fans’ responses. He admonished those sending him racist remarks, stating, “Bravo, well done. It’s almost like your pea-sized brain can’t grasp the concept of equality. But hey, some things never change, right?” He further emphasized his identity, noting, “No wonder people from the Northeast are treated so poorly by some in mainland India. I’m as much, if not more, Indian than you’ll ever be, but sure, keep living in that bubble.”
In his initial post and several subsequent ones, ThaangJam did not target Alia Bhatt or her acting capabilities directly but instead pointed to systemic issues within the film production process. He articulated his respect for fellow artists while calling for a reflection of those who hold blind allegiance to the hierarchical structure that perpetuates such injustices.
. “As an artist and actor, I have the utmost respect and gratitude for my fellow creatives. What I criticized was the flawed system, the hierarchy, and the terrible management.” His call for self-introspection among certain fans, whom he described as “bhakhts” and “fanatics,” was clear: “Please do me a favor, get a life. Your racist and derogatory comments only prove how little you are as a person.”
Expressing his gratitude for the support he received, ThaangJam concluded with a message of unity and diversity, writing, “A big thank you to those who’ve shown love and support—let’s not forget that we’re Indians, and it’s diversity we should be celebrating. Jai Hind.”
Bijou ThaangJam’s online declaration has sparked a widespread debate about racial discrimination faced by Northeastern Indians within the film industry and beyond. This incident underscored the struggles that many individuals from the Northeast encounter, despite being part of the country’s complex and diverse cultural fabric.
ThaangJam’s diverse career trajectory and outspoken nature have helped him carve a niche in the entertainment world. Aside from his film engagements, he was one of the top 50 contestants in Master Chef India 2011. His recent work includes a Kannada-language film, ‘Chili Chicken,’ which tells the story of five Northeastern boys working in a Chinese restaurant, where a mysterious tragedy unfolds. Released on OTT platforms, the film tackles themes that resonate with his current campaign against discrimination.
The backlash from Alia Bhatt’s fan base following his comments has pulled the actor into a broader conversation about the Indian entertainment industry’s inclusivity and treatment of diverse identities. While the dissolution of the movie ‘Jigra’ at the box office might have seemed like a secondary narrative, it has, in fact, acted as the catalyst for a significant cultural dialogue.
