Mumbai: Alia Bhatt has found herself at the centre of a social media debate after her recent hosting stint at the Chetak Screen Awards drew criticism online, with seasoned presenter Mini Mathur endorsing a viral critique.
Performance sparks online discussion
Alia, who co-hosted the event alongside Zakir Khan, faced backlash after an Instagram video critique by a user went viral. The video questioned not just her performance but also the broader trend of casting film actors as award show hosts.
While Alia is widely appreciated for her acting prowess, her hosting performance was described by several users as “awkward”, “forced” and lacking spontaneity—qualities considered essential for live stage anchoring.
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A joke that didn’t land
One of the most discussed moments from the evening was a joke referencing filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
Alia quipped that she had been shooting for a Bhansali film since 2019 and was still shooting for it in 2026—a remark intended as a light-hearted take on the director’s elaborate production timelines.
However, instead of drawing laughs, the line triggered widespread criticism online, with many viewers calling it “cringe” and “hard to watch”.
Debate on actors vs professional hosts
The viral critique went beyond the joke, raising a broader industry concern—whether acting talent automatically translates into effective hosting.
The post argued that live hosting demands a different skill set, including timing, improvisation and the ability to engage audiences in real time.
“There’s a reason professional hosts exist. Hosting is a craft,” the critique noted, adding that the industry often confuses popularity with versatility.
Mini Mathur’s endorsement adds weight
The discussion gained further traction when Mini Mathur publicly agreed with the critique. Known for her extensive experience across television and live events, her endorsement lent credibility to the argument.
“Thank you. Someone finally said it,” she commented, turning the conversation into a larger industry talking point.
Audience reactions pour in
Social media quickly turned into a review platform, with users sharing mixed but largely critical reactions to the performance. Some viewers expressed disappointment, while others highlighted the challenges of live hosting compared to scripted acting.
The incident has reignited conversations about the importance of specialised skills in entertainment roles, particularly in high-pressure live environments like award shows.
Conclusion
What began as a critique of Alia Bhatt’s hosting has evolved into a wider debate about the difference between acting and anchoring. With voices like Mini Mathur weighing in, the discussion is likely to push the industry to rethink how it approaches hosting roles in the future.
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