Mumbai: A members-only episode of ‘India’s Got Latent’ featured comedian Samay Raina speaking about his Kashmiri roots during a conversation with contestant Vanika Raikta.
The discussion began after Vanika shared details about her family’s apple orchards in Shimla. Her revelation prompted fellow panellist Raghav Juyal to draw a parallel with Samay’s own connection to Kashmir.
Reacting to the mention of apple orchards, Raghav asked Samay, “Tumhara bhi toh tha na seb ka bagicha Kashmir mein? (You also had an apple orchard in Kashmir, right?)”
Samay replied, “Hamara toh bahut kuch tha (We had a lot more).” The remark appeared to refer to the displacement of Kashmiri Pandits from the Valley during the insurgency, an issue Samay has previously spoken about.
After Raghav patted Samay on the back, the comedian turned towards fellow panellist Munawar Faruqui and jokingly said, “Bol ab ispe (Now speak on this).”
Munawar immediately raised his hand and replied, “It wasn’t me,” leaving the panel members and audience in laughter.
Samay has earlier spoken about his family’s history and their connection to Kashmir.
In his stand-up special Still Alive released earlier this year, the comedian recalled how his family left the Valley after militancy escalated.
During his appearance on the Dostcast podcast, Samay spoke at length about the 1990 Kashmiri Pandit exodus, recalling how his family had to flee Kashmir overnight amid fear and uncertainty. He also spoke about the lasting impact of the displacement on his family.
Samay further credited Kashmiri Muslims for helping save his grandfather from being targeted by militants.
Recalling the incident, he said, “Luckily, he had so much goodwill ki wahan ke jo Kashmiri Muslims the, they were the ones who helped my nana get out of that thing… They told the terrorists that this cannot happen here.”
‘India’s Got Latent Season 2’ is streaming on Netflix and Samay Raina’s YouTube channel following the controversy involving Ranveer Allahbadia.
Since its premiere on June 20, 2026, the show has followed a bi-weekly release schedule, with each episode featuring a new set of contestants and celebrity panellists.
