Mallika Dua slams YouTuber-baker Shivesh Bhatia for using her catchphrases
What's the story
Comedian-actor Mallika Dua recently called out YouTuber and "self-taught" baker Shivesh Bhatia for using her signature catchphrases without giving due credit. This has sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with many users criticizing Dua's response as disproportionate. The phrases in question include "Skyaaauz me (Excuse me), very kyaut (Very cute), cwispy and cwunchy (crispy and crunchy)," which are closely associated with Dua's comedic style.
Instagram stories
Dua shares screenshots of her conversation with Bhatia
Dua took to Instagram to express her displeasure over Bhatia's use of her catchphrases. "If you're a creator and you use my catchphrases in your videos, I expect you not to use them firstly," Dua wrote. "Second, I expect to be credited in the video and the description and the credits. It's non-negotiable. You cannot be so comfortable claiming jokes and mannerisms that aren't yours. This isn't as generic as a recipe."
Apology
Bhatia responds with an apology
Further, according to a screenshot shared by Dua, Bhatia responded with an apology, "Oh I'm so sorry. Will genuinely keep this in mind and not repeat it. Didn't think you'd screenshot our conversation and put it on stories," he said. "I hope you know I realize you're upset and I will be mindful. You also know I've been a big fan of your work for years now."
Online reactions
Social media users side with Bhatia, condemn Dua
The exchange quickly gained traction on Reddit and X. A majority of social media users sided with Bhatia, with one user commenting, "How petty is she? Has she trademarked the 'catchphrases?' If not, then anybody can use it, no?" Another said, "The fact that no one knows her catchphrase and she went on a 4 story rant like she invented the word is next level."