Shashi Tharoor Fires Back at 'Paid Review' Claims, Defending Glowing Praise for Aryan Khan’s Directorial Debut

Senior political figure Shashi Tharoor has forcefully refuted claims of a "paid review" following his effusive public praise for the new web series, 'The Bads of Bollywood'*, which marks the directorial debut of Aryan Khan. The Congress leader took to a social media platform to directly address the allegations that surfaced after he shared his positive critique of the Netflix series.

Tharoor, who watched all seven episodes, was compelled to engage directly with a user who had cynically commented on his post, suggesting that the critique was part of a "new side business – paid reviews." In a clear statement intended to quash the speculation, the political leader asserted the uncompromised independence of his opinions, stating, “I’m not for sale, my friend. No opinion I express has ever been paid for by anybody, in cash or in kind.” This firm response was designed to maintain the integrity of his critical assessment and dismiss any notion of sponsored influence.

High Praise for OTT GOLD and Satirical Audacity

Prior to the controversy, Tharoor had shared his strong impression of the series, which he viewed while recuperating from an illness. He characterized the show as "absolute OTT GOLD," describing the viewing experience as a rewarding and engaging distraction.

The core of his admiration lay in the show's unique approach and satirical content. Tharoor elaborated that the series, while taking some time to hook the viewer, ultimately becomes "irresistibly hooked." He specifically highlighted the production’s high-quality technical and narrative elements: “The writing is sharp, the direction is fearless, and the sheer audacity of this satire is just what Bollywood needed.” He praised the series for offering a "genius, often hilarious, sometimes moving, and always unflinching look beyond the glamour," and for sending up "every cinematic cliche with razor-like wit."

Tharoor concluded his detailed critique by hailing the final product as a "masterpiece" and a clear sign of the arrival of a new "storytelling powerhouse" in Aryan Khan. The politician also included a direct congratulatory message to the director’s father, Shah Rukh Khan, expressing the deep pride he must feel for his son’s achievement.

The Series and Industry Commentary

'The Ba***ds of Bollywood' premiered on September 18 and immediately garnered attention for its satirical examination of the Hindi film industry's inner workings and power dynamics. The series features a strong ensemble cast, including Lakshya, Raghav Juyal, Sahher Bambba, and Bobby Deol in prominent roles, with supporting performances from actors like Anya Singh, Mona Singh, and Manoj Pahwa.

The show's bold commentary on the challenges faced by both industry insiders and outsiders has resonated with audiences, leading to generally positive responses. Tharoor’s prominent endorsement, though quickly followed by a public defense of his critical independence, further amplified the conversation around the debut series, solidifying its place as a notable satirical work in the current digital streaming landscape.