‘Worse Than Ranveer Allahbadia’: Policybazaar Ad Slammed for Insensitive Storytelling During India-Pakistan Match
A recent Policybazaar TV advertisement has ignited a firestorm of criticism online, with viewers slamming its “insensitive” and “disgusting” portrayal of grief. Aired during the high-profile India vs. Pakistan ICC Champions Trophy match on February 23, 2025, the ad aimed to promote life insurance but instead left a sour taste. Social media users have labeled it “worse than Ranveer Allahbadia,” referencing the YouTuber’s recent controversy over crude remarks on India’s Got Latent.
The commercial features a grieving woman lamenting her late husband’s failure to buy term life insurance. She says, “Main school ki fees kaise bharungi, ghar ka kharcha bhi hai” (How will I pay the school fees? There are also household expenses), before adding, “Tum toh term life insurance liye bina hi chale gaye” (You left without even buying term life insurance). The camera pans to a garlanded photo of her husband, signaling his death. While the intent was to stress financial security, many found the tone harsh and disrespectful.
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Social media erupted with backlash. One X user posted, “A man just passed away, and the first thing his wife does is blame him for not buying term insurance? This isn’t financial awareness, it’s just insensitive storytelling.” The post racked up over 1.3 million views and 2,500 comments, with hashtags like #PolicyBazaar and #INDvsPAK trending. Another user fumed, “It’s not only insensitive, it’s disgusting too. Grow up Policybazaar. Pull this ad down!”
Critics also pointed to the delivery, with one writing, “The way she rages at her late husband is absolutely vile. How can the writers be so tone-deaf?” Comparisons to Ranveer Allahbadia’s crass humor surfaced, with a user stating, “Insult to men and humanity. Worse than Ranveer Allahbadia.” Allahbadia faced legal trouble earlier in February 2025 for offensive jokes, making the reference a stinging jab.
Policybazaar has yet to officially respond as of March 2, 2025, but the uproar highlights a growing demand for sensitivity in advertising. With insurance penetration low in India, experts say the ad missed a chance to educate and instead alienated viewers. The controversy continues to brew, leaving many questioning the brand’s next move.
