After a year-long hiatus following the “India’s Got Latent” controversy, comedian Samay Raina has staged a historic comeback. His debut YouTube special, “Still Alive,” has shattered global records by surpassing 53.4 million views.
This milestone makes it the most-watched full-length stand-up special in the world from a single upload, marking the first time a comedian has held this specific global record on a single platform.
“Still Alive” also marks Raina’s first official stand-up special. In the 1-hour and 21-minute-long performance, he speaks candidly about the “India’s Got Latent” controversy, his one-year break from public appearances, personal and financial struggles, childhood bullying, his Kashmiri Pandit identity, mental health and the support he received from fans and close friends.
Also read: Samay Raina announces comeback after IGL controversy
For those unversed, the “India’s Got Latent” controversy began in February last year after Ranveer Allahbadia, Ashish Chanchlani, and Apoorva Mukhija appeared as panellists on the show. A remark made by Allahbadia triggered widespread backlash, following which FIRs were filed against Samay Raina and others involved.
Following the controversy, Raina removed the show from YouTube, while Allahbadia later issued a public apology. Despite the setback, Samay has also indicated that a second season of India’s Got Latent is in the works.