In recent years, reality TV has increasingly become a platform for individuals from varied walks of life, with a focus on creating entertaining and often controversial content. However, in the case of Rajat Dalal, a fitness influencer with a history of criminal behavior, his inclusion as a contestant in Bigg Boss 18 raises critical questions about the ethical responsibility of media platforms and the consequences of glorifying such individuals. Dalal’s documented history of violence, assault, and antisocial behavior makes him an inappropriate candidate for any public platform, especially one that commands the attention of millions of viewers, many of whom are young and impressionable.
This article explores the reasons why Rajat Dalal’s participation in Bigg Boss is harmful to society, focusing on his criminal record, toxic influence on youth, and the broader societal implications of his glorification.
Rajat Dalal’s Criminal Record: A Pattern of Violence
Rajat Dalal has been embroiled in numerous legal controversies, most notably involving a brutal assault and abduction in 2024. This incident took place after a gym member, Dhyan Lodha, posted a selfie with Dalal, captioning it: “Every morning, seeing your face at the gym ruins my day.” This seemingly innocuous comment triggered an extreme response from Dalal, who, along with his associates, abducted Lodha from his residence. The victim was verbally abused, humiliated, and forced to perform squats. Dalal later smeared cow dung on Lodha’s face and assaulted him with slippers while filming the entire ordeal. Such violent acts are not only criminal but reflect a disturbing disregard for human dignity and the law.
In addition, Dalal has faced other accusations, including reckless driving that resulted in an accident. A viral video showed him hitting a biker while driving at 140 km/h, and his callous response, “Roz ka yahi kaam hai mera ma’am” (“This is my daily routine”), highlights his casual attitude toward harming others. These incidents underline the fact that Dalal exhibits no remorse for his actions and even seems to revel in his defiance of the law.
Toxic Masculinity in Full Display
Dalal’s online persona glorifies hyper-masculine behavior, which includes bullying, public feuds, and a propensity for violence. In one instance, Dalal engaged in a high-profile social media dispute with fellow influencer Rajveer Shishodia(StarsUnfolded). The online spat was filled with derogatory remarks and threats, setting a harmful example that bullying and intimidation are effective ways to assert dominance.
Reality shows like Bigg Boss have a responsibility to avoid endorsing harmful stereotypes, particularly toxic masculinity, which promotes aggression as a desirable trait. When individuals like Rajat Dalal are rewarded with fame, it reinforces these negative stereotypes, making them appear socially acceptable or even aspirational to viewers.
Normalization of Criminal Behavior
Dalal’s participation in Bigg Boss 18 sends a dangerous message: that criminal behavior can be overlooked, even rewarded, if it brings enough attention. By featuring him, Bigg Boss implicitly condones his past actions, creating an environment where crime and antisocial behavior are downplayed or even celebrated for the sake of entertainment. This not only undermines the rule of law but also sets a dangerous precedent for reality television as a whole.
The Impact on Youth and Society
As an influencer with over a million followers, Dalal holds significant sway over a large audience, many of whom are young and impressionable. Social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube give influencers the power to shape opinions, behaviors, and values, especially among teenagers who may look up to them as role models. When someone with a history of violence and criminality is elevated to celebrity status through a popular show like Bigg Boss, it can have detrimental effects on societal norms.
Impressionable Youth and the Glorification of Violence
Dalal’s participation in Bigg Boss contributes to the glorification of toxic masculinity and violence, particularly dangerous to young men. His public persona, built around aggression, dominance, and physical power, reinforces harmful stereotypes about what it means to be a man. His actions in public feuds, like the one with Rajveer Shishodia, exemplify this behavior. Dalal publicly challenged Shishodia and made derogatory remarks, leading to a highly publicized online feud filled with threats and insults.
For young viewers, particularly boys, seeing someone like Dalal thrive in a high-profile show could perpetuate the idea that aggression and dominance are admirable traits. It sends a message that resorting to violence and intimidation is a valid means of asserting one’s strength and gaining popularity. In an age where bullying, both online and offline, is a growing concern, this is an incredibly harmful message to propagate.
Undermining Accountability and Justice
One of the most troubling aspects of Rajat Dalal’s public persona is his open defiance of the law and his claims of being above the legal system. During his abduction and assault of Dhyan Lodha, Dalal allegedly threatened the victim and his family, boasting that the police were in his pocket and that he had high-level connections that protected him from any legal consequences. This brazen disregard for the rule of law undermines social justice and public trust in legal institutions.
Reality TV’s Role in Reinforcing Impunity
By featuring Dalal on Bigg Boss, the producers of the show contribute to the perception that fame and influence can shield individuals from accountability. This perception is particularly dangerous in a society where many feel that justice is not always served equally. If individuals with serious criminal allegations are rewarded with fame and a platform, it erodes public confidence in the legal system and promotes a culture of impunity.
In contrast, media platforms should be highlighting individuals who promote positive societal values, demonstrate accountability, and contribute to the betterment of their communities. Reality TV has the power to shape cultural norms and should, therefore, be more discerning in its choice of contestants, especially those with a troubled or criminal past.
The Broader Societal Impact: What Are We Really Celebrating?
Reality TV has long been a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it offers entertainment and the opportunity for regular people to gain fame. On the other hand, it often promotes toxic behaviors for the sake of ratings, rewarding individuals who exhibit extreme, controversial, or even dangerous actions. Rajat Dalal’s presence on Bigg Boss 18 exemplifies this dark side of reality TV, where fame is prioritized over ethical considerations.
The Risk of Desensitization
When criminal behavior is broadcasted as part of mainstream entertainment, there is a risk of desensitizing the audience to serious issues like violence and abuse. In Dalal’s case, his violent actions are not only minimized but could even be seen as part of his “tough guy” image, making viewers less sensitive to the real-life consequences of such behavior. This desensitization can have far-reaching implications, particularly in how society reacts to violence and injustice.
In contrast, shows like Bigg Boss should be using their platform to promote positive change and responsible behavior, especially considering their massive influence on public opinion. By allowing someone like Dalal to participate, the show loses an opportunity to be a force for good in society.
Conclusion: Why Rajat Dalal Should Not Be a Contestant on Bigg Boss 18
Rajat Dalal’s participation in Bigg Boss 18 sets a dangerous precedent for reality television and its role in shaping societal values. His history of violence, criminal behavior, and open defiance of the law make him an unsuitable candidate for any platform that reaches millions of viewers, particularly young people. Allowing someone with such a troubling background to compete in a high-profile reality show risks glorifying criminal behavior, promoting toxic masculinity, and undermining public trust in the legal system.
Reality TV should be held to a higher standard, especially when it comes to the ethical implications of the individuals it chooses to feature. By including Rajat Dalal, Bigg Boss not only fails to uphold these standards but also contributes to a broader cultural problem: the glorification of individuals who should instead be held accountable for their actions.
For the sake of public morality, social justice, and the well-being of impressionable young viewers, Rajat Dalal should not be given a platform on Bigg Boss 18.
thats really sad that eve law is not able to do anything about it. Rajat dalal has convicted for multiple crimes and including harassment and abducting. really sad