In an unfolding drama within Bollywood’s glittering corridors, the recently released film ‘Jigra’ featuring stars Alia Bhatt and Vedant Raina has become more renowned for its off-screen controversy than its on-screen success, as the film struggled to impress at the box office over its opening weekend. The spotlight has shifted onto Bijou ThaangJam, a talented and multifaceted actor from Manipur, who is currently entangled in a digital fracas with die-hard fans of Alia Bhatt.
Bijou ThaangJam, who is celebrated for his diverse talents ranging from acting and music to entrepreneurship, recently took to his X account to voice grievances regarding discriminatory practices he purportedly faced during the production of ‘Jigra’. However, instead of garnering understanding and introspection, his revelations sparked a storm of vitriol and ethnically charged remarks predominantly from Alia Bhatt’s legion of adoring fans.
Expressing his dismay, Bijou stated on X, “The irony is truly remarkable. I speak up about discrimination, and suddenly I’m met with a flood of racist and discriminatory remarks.” His words are a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by northeastern Indians in the entertainment industry and beyond.
His social media outcry was unapologetically direct, as he called out the ignorance of some commenters, “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? 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.”
The actor’s bold stance has resonated deeply, but it hasn’t been met without backlash. Die-hard fans of Alia Bhatt, whom Bijou termed as “die-hard fans, bhakhts, and fanatics,” have taken offense, branding his outspoken criticism as unnecessary. Yet, Bijou stands unfazed. He reiterated the respect he holds for fellow creatives while criticizing systemic failures within the industry.
. “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,” he clarified.
Born in Imphal, Manipur, Bijou ThaangJam’s journey in the performing arts has been marked by resilience and diversity. Not only has he graced the screen in notable films such as ‘Mary Kom’ and ‘Shivaay’, but he also showcased his culinary skills as one of the top 50 contestants in Master Chef India 2011. His recent work, ‘Chili Chicken’, a Kannada film available on OTT platforms, echoes the storytelling vibrancy that Bijou brings, exploring the lives of northeastern boys working in a restaurant mired in a mysterious death.
The current public debate surrounding Bijou ThaangJam is, however, indicative of the broader conversation on the racial prejudices that persist within the Indian entertainment industry. Bijou’s argument appears to focus on the need for acceptance and recognition of the talents and heritage of the northeastern states. He adds, “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.”
In the wake of this heated discourse, Bijou’s voice joins a chorus of calls for change, appealing for mutual respect and an end to microaggressions that often target people based on their ethnicity. His message is clear: inclusivity is vital to progress.
As tensions simmer, the conversation sparked by Bijou ThaangJam’s candid revelations may mark a turning point in how the entertainment industry—and its audiences—address inequity. For now, Bijou might be facing a wave of disapproval, but his determination remains steadfast as he continues to push for dialogue and change, reminding us all that diversity is not just a buzzword but a tenet of identity that must be cherished and defended in the world’s largest democracy.
