Mukesh Khanna x Samay Raina Collab for Ad Sparks Backlash, Netizens Call ‘Shaktimaan’ Actor ‘Shameless’ for Being a Sellout (Watch Video)
Mukesh Khanna faced intense backlash after starring in an Ai+ Smartphone ad with comedian Samay Raina. This unexpected collaboration comes months after the 'Shaktimaan' actor publicly condemned Raina's 'vulgar' comedy, suggesting he be 'paraded on a donkey'. Social media users are calling out Khanna for alleged hypocrisy and 'selling out'.
In a shocking turn of events that has sent ripples across the entertainment industry and social media, iconic Indian television actor Mukesh Khanna has featured in a promotional advertisement alongside stand-up comedian Samay Raina. The collaboration, which surfaced today, Monday, June 22, 2026, has drawn intense criticism, as it comes merely months after Khanna had vehemently slammed Raina for his comedic content, even suggesting he be publicly humiliated. The advertisement, promoting an Ai+ Smartphone, was shared by Samay Raina on his Instagram, quickly going viral and sparking a heated debate online. The unexpected pairing has left many questioning the sincerity of Khanna's previous outrage, leading to accusations of double standards and selling out.
Mukesh Khanna and Samay Raina Ad Sparks Backlash - Watch Video:
Mukesh Khanna-Samay Raina Controversy: 'Kutte ki Dum' and 'Donkey Parade'
The genesis of this controversy dates back to April 2026, when Mukesh Khanna, 67, launched a scathing attack on Samay Raina following the comedian's YouTube show, India's Got Latent, and his stand-up special Still Alive, where Raina allegedly mocked Khanna's iconic superhero character, Shaktimaan. Khanna, known for his outspoken nature, did not mince words. In an Instagram post in April, he referred to Raina as 'Kutte ki dum' (a dog's tail), implying he was incorrigible. ‘Kutte Ki Dum’: Mukesh Khanna Slams Samay Raina, Actor Calls for Comedian To Be Paraded on Donkey Over ‘Shaktimaan’ Roast (View Post).
His criticism escalated to a severe degree, with Khanna suggesting that Raina "should have his face blackened, be made to sit on a donkey, and paraded through cities, where kids would throw tomatoes and eggs at him because he's insulted their superhero Shaktimaan." Khanna also branded India's Got Latent as "ashleel" (obscene) and condemned the use of "below-the-belt jokes" and open abuse, questioning why platforms would allow such content.
Samay Raina x Mukesh Khanna Advertisement - What Does It Show?
Ironically, the new Ai+ Smartphone commercial directly references this public feud. The clip opens with Samay Raina on a phone call, stating, "Thanks, yaar. The show is returning now. As they say, darkness doesn't prevail for long." Ai+ Nova 2 Neo 5G Price in India, Features and Specifications.
Moments later, Mukesh Khanna makes a dramatic entry in his Shaktimaan avatar. Their dialogue in the ad playfully, yet pointedly, alludes to their past conflict, as follows:
- Samay Raina: "What are you doing on my roof, sir?"
- Mukesh Khanna: "Teri tedhi dumm seedhi karne ayaa hu, Samay Raina." (I am here to put you in line, Samay Raina.)
- Mukesh Khanna (further remarks): "After three FIRs, you don't seem to have learnt a lesson. We will have to paint your face black." He also took at jab at Raina's comedy, saying, "You live in India, but your jokes are American style."
- Samay Raina (at the end): "Sorry, Shaktimaan."
Social Media Erupts: 'Shaktimaan Bik Gaya'
The advertisement, released shortly after the launch of the second season of India's Got Latent on Samay Raina's YouTube channel and Netflix India, has triggered widespread outrage and accusations of hypocrisy against Mukesh Khanna. Social media is abuzz with comments like "Shaktimaan bik gaya" (Shaktimaan is sold out) and "If shamelessness had a face, it would look like Mukesh Khanna."
Netizens React to Mukesh Khanna and Samay Raina advertisement
Users are expressing dismay, criticising the actor for seemingly compromising his previously strong moral stance for a commercial endorsement. While some users have also directed criticism towards Samay Raina, calling him a "sellout," the majority of the backlash appears to be aimed at the veteran actor for his perceived U-turn.
Netizens React to Mukesh Khanna and Samay Raina collaboration
This is the same smartphone company that was prominently endorsed and mentioned on the premiere episode of India's Got Latent S2, featuring Alia Bhatt and Samay Raina. ‘India's Got Latent S2’ Premiere Episode: Alia Bhatt Refuses to Laugh at ‘Epstein Island’ Joke on Samay Raina’s Netflix Show, ‘Alpha’ Actress Garners Praise (Watch Video).
The unexpected collaboration between Samay Raina and Mukesh Khanna after their feud shows the evolving dynamics of celebrity endorsements and the often-blurred lines between public persona and commercial interests in the digital age.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 22, 2026 04:46 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
