In recent years, social media has further fused real and scripted entertainment, particularly in celebrity vlogs.
Farah Khan’s YouTube channel, with its regular “funny” exchanges between her and her cook Dilip, is a classic example of a trend where the owner-servant relationship is made publicly visible for entertainment.
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Though their relationship is cordial and empathetic, and Dilip’s existence has apparently become better with fresh prospects and popularity, the humour tends to cross over into cringe-worthy moments.
Jokes that are cute in private become embarrassing when blown out of proportion in front of millions on the internet. This isn’t only concerning Farah Khan. Most celebrities and influencers, in their quest for viral material, lose sight of the dynamics of power.
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When a supervisor constantly jests about an employee-even if the former seems not to mind-the action can standardize disrespect. It is even worse, as it sets a precedent: many viewers might copy this “entertainment,” encouraging them to treat their own workers in the same, maybe even more degrading, fashion.
The ripple effect is dangerous, as it can destroy basic respect and dignity for domestic workers, who are already stigmatized by society.
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Celebrities need to understand that what is “scripted” or “just for laughs” to them can mean real-world effects for others. Humour at the expense of someone’s dignity is not okay.
