Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri faced online backlash after referring to Maharashtrian cuisine as “kisaano ka gareeb khana” (“poor farmers’ food”) during a YouTube appearance with his wife Pallavi Joshi on Curly Tales. The remark, reflecting his initial cultural shock with the simplicity of Marathi dishes, sparked criticism on social media for allegedly dismissing the regional cuisine.

Pallavi Joshi recounted that early in their marriage, Vivek often found traditional Maharashtrian meals unfamiliar. She recalled, “He didn’t like anything that I cooked because he used to think, ‘Yeh kya tum log gareebo ka khana khaate ho’.” However, she noted that he eventually adapted, recognizing the health benefits and economical nature of the thalis.

Vivek explained that his first reactions stemmed from his upbringing in Delhi, where meals were richer and more spice-heavy. He said, “There’s no salt in that, you have to add it separately… Marathi kadhi is like a healthy dish.” Over time, he embraced simpler meals, stating, “Now, I eat like her, just simple food. That is the best way to eat.” He emphasized that the Maharashtrian thali is “the most economical and healthy thali.”

Responding to criticism on The Raunac Podcast, Vivek clarified that his comments were made in jest. He added that selective editing had amplified controversy, noting, “People picked up the first half of my statement… People edit things these days.”

The discussion coincides with the upcoming release of The Bengal Files on September 5, the third part of his Files trilogy, following The Kashmir Files and The Tashkent Files. The film stars Darshan Kumar, Pallavi Joshi, Anupam Kher, Namashi Chakraborty, and others, and explores the 1946 Calcutta killings during Bengal’s Direct Action Day.

This incident highlights the sensitivity around regional food preferences in India and demonstrates how celebrity remarks can quickly become a topic of viral social media debate. Vivek’s clarification underscores the distinction between personal cultural reactions and public disrespect, reaffirming his respect for Maharashtrian cuisine and its nutritional and cultural value.

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