YouTuber Payal Malik tenders apology after controversial 'Kali Maa' video sparks outrage
PTC Web Desk: Social media influencer and Bigg Boss OTT Season 3 contestant Payal Malik, who is also the wife of popular content creator Armaan Malik, issued a public apology after facing backlash for a video in which she dressed as Goddess Kali. The video, featuring Payal Malik holding a trident and wearing a crown, drew widespread criticism from several religious groups and devotees, who claimed it hurt their religious sentiments.
A complaint was filed at Zirakpur police station following the outrage. In response to the controversy, Payal Malik visited the Kali Mata Mandir in Patiala on Tuesday along with her husband Armaan Malik. At the temple, she offered prayers, expressed deep regret, and asked for forgiveness from the temple authorities and devotees present.
Speaking to the media, Payal said, “It was never my intention to hurt anyone’s religious sentiments. My daughter is a devotee of Kali Mata, and I had dressed up in that form for her. I now realise it was a serious mistake.”
The YouTuber added that she had deleted the video over three months ago but claimed that it continued to circulate after being reshared by other social media pages. She promised never to repeat such an act in the future.
“I understand my mistake now. I sincerely apologise with folded hands. I assure everyone that such a thing will not happen again,” she stated.
Religious organisations accused Payal Malik of seeking cheap publicity and warned of stricter actions in future instances of religious disrespect. They also highlighted that the Punjab Government is reportedly considering life imprisonment for those found guilty of religious sacrilege.
When asked about the criticism regarding her attire in the video, Payal acknowledged the concerns and admitted that her choice of clothing was inappropriate, again offering her apologies.
Who is Payal Malik?
Payal Malik is a digital content creator, Instagram personality, and YouTuber known for her collaborative videos with husband Armaan Malik. Born in 1994 in New Delhi, she recently gained national attention as a participant in Bigg Boss OTT Season 3, appearing alongside Armaan Malik and his second wife Kritika Malik.
- With inputs from agencies
