During a recent family vlog, YouTuber Diya Krishna aka Ozy Talkies addressed a question from subscribers about why she calls her in-laws “aunty” and “uncle” instead of “mom” and “dad”, as is common in many Indian families. One can always say that ultimately it is a personal choice and that therefore nobody is obligated to address their in-laws in a particular way. But what shocked many was the way she chose to respond to it: “Why would I call any Tom, Dick and Harry my mother or father? Even if tomorrow my son starts calling his mom-in-law as mom, I will get stressed. Maybe those who have no parents of their own can do that.” The issue was never about whether she calls her in-laws “mom” or “dad”. It was the sheer insensitivity and hostility of the statement itself.

Firstly, the tone came across as deeply disrespectful, not just towards her in-laws, but also towards viewers who had followed her for years believing that she shared a warm and affectionate bond with them.

Secondly, the remark casually revealed a rather possessive and toxic idea of relationships and parenting. It is there in the belief that love or emotional closeness is somehow diminished if another parental figure enters someone’s life.

And finally, the comment was painfully insensitive towards people who have lost their parents. For many, calling an in-law “mom” or “dad” comes from love, comfort, healing or emotional belonging, and not just because they “lack” parents. You can always reject a social tradition without demeaning the people who follow it.

When it comes to the Krishna Kumar family, they can very well be rechristened as Kerala’s “YouTube family”. Almost every member runs a successful channel of their own, collectively building a massive digital presence over the years.

Their popularity is undeniable. But so is the criticism they have consistently attracted. From accusations of right-wing leanings and casteist remarks to........

© Mathrubhumi English