From public criticism to on-screen collaboration
Earlier this year, Mukesh Khanna had strongly criticised Samay Raina and the comedy show India’s Got Latent, calling its content “ashleel” (obscene). He had also made harsh remarks during the backlash surrounding remarks by Ranveer Allahbadia on the show, which led to FIRs being filed against several involved individuals, including Samay Raina.
At the time, Khanna condemned the content in strong terms and questioned the comedian’s values, even making incendiary comments during the height of the controversy.
The new AI+ smartphone commercial
Despite the earlier tensions, the two have now come together for a commercial for AI+ Smartphone, which Samay Raina shared on Instagram. The ad features a humorous exchange between the two, blending satire and references to their past conflict.
In the video, Samay is seen on a rooftop speaking on the phone, saying, “Thanks, yaar. The show is returning now. As they say, darkness doesn't prevail for long.” Mukesh Khanna then enters in a dramatic “Shaktimaan”-style appearance.
Samay reacts in surprise, asking, “What are you doing on my rooftop, sir?” to which Khanna responds, “Teri tedhi dum seedhi karne aaya hoon, Samay Raina (I am here to set you straight).”
The exchange escalates in a comedic tone, referencing their previous conflict. At one point, Samay quips about legal trouble, while Khanna responds with remarks referencing FIRs and criticism of Samay’s humour style. The ad ends with Samay showcasing the smartphone, highlighting its “Made in India” positioning.
Internet divided over collaboration
The unexpected pairing quickly went viral, sparking mixed reactions on social media. Many users expressed surprise and amusement, calling it an “unexpected collab” and comparing its unpredictability to major pop culture moments.
However, others criticised Mukesh Khanna for working with Samay Raina after previously demanding strict action against him during the controversy. Some users accused the actor of inconsistency, while others suggested the collaboration was driven by commercial interest and relevance.
Background of the controversy
The tension between the two stems from February 2025, when comments made on India’s Got Latent by Ranveer Allahbadia triggered widespread outrage and legal complaints. The controversy led to FIRs and intense public scrutiny of the show’s format and participants.
Mukesh Khanna was among the vocal critics of the show at the time, strongly condemning its content and questioning its cultural impact. His earlier remarks toward Samay Raina resurfaced after the release of the new advertisement, further fueling debate online.
A collaboration that surprised audiences
Despite the past friction, the new advertisement has brought both figures together in a scripted, humorous format—blurring the lines between public controversy and commercial storytelling. While some viewers see it as a clever marketing move, others remain critical of the apparent reversal in stance.
As the ad continues to circulate online, it has firmly positioned itself as one of the most talked-about celebrity collaborations in recent times.
