After being successfully broadcast on television and then OTT for 12 long years, 'The Big Bang Theory' ended its run a few years ago. The show has hit the headlines recently after political analyst Mithun Vijay Kumar slapped Netflix with a legal notice over the use of derogatory remarks against Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit Nene in the first episode of the show's second season. This episode was first aired in 2008.
Fans are clearly not happy with it and many celebrities from Bollywood have also been coming out in support of Madhuri. ETimes spoke to Flora Saini, who feels it is unacceptable to label any woman as a 'leprous prostitute'. "As someone who has been a part of the Indian film industry for years, I believe it's important to respect women and avoid using derogatory language towards them. It's unacceptable to label any woman as a 'leprous prostitute,' and it's immoral to do so. While I understand that western content is often appreciated, we need to hold ourselves to a higher standard of respect and dignity. The scene in question was shot and allowed to be published by the producers of the show back in 2008, not by Netflix. As an actor, I stand with my colleagues in the industry to promote respect and equality for all," she said.
Elaborating further, Flora added, "Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Madhuri Dixit are both great actors who have dedicated their entire lives to the industry. Calling them out on it is not only disrespectful to them but to Indian cinema as well."
In a part of the first episode of The Big Bang Theory’s second season, Sheldon Cooper (Jim Parsons) and Raj Koothrapalli (Kunal Nayyar) can be seen arguing over the superiority of Aishwarya Rai and Madhuri Dixit. Sheldon randomly dismissed Rai by calling her a 'poor man’s Madhuri Dixit'. Raj, who was clearly offended, replied by saying, 'Aishwarya Rai is a goddess, by comparison, Madhuri Dixit is a leprous prostitute.'
Mithun Vijay Kumar said the character's comments are both disrespectful and defamatory. According to a news agency, he has asked Netflix to remove the episode or face legal action for promoting discrimination against women. The notice has been sent to their Mumbai office.
