Mumbai

Comedian Samay Raina has returned to the spotlight after more than a year away from public life, with his debut stand-up special Still Alive becoming a major online success.

Released on YouTube, the special has crossed 53.4 million views and is being described as the most-watched full-length stand-up comedy special globally from a single upload. Reports say the achievement makes Raina the first comedian to hold the record for the highest-viewed stand-up special through one platform upload.

The 1-hour 21-minute performance is Raina’s first official comedy special. In it, he addresses several personal and professional experiences, including the India's Got Latent controversy, his year-long absence from public appearances, financial and personal struggles, childhood bullying, mental health, his Kashmiri Pandit identity, and support from fans and friends.

The controversy began in February last year after Ranveer Allahbadia, Ashish Chanchlani, and Apoorva Mukhija appeared as panellists on the show. A remark by Allahbadia sparked criticism, leading to FIRs against Raina and others linked to the programme.

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After the backlash, Raina removed the show from YouTube, while Allahbadia later issued a public apology. Despite the controversy, Raina has suggested that a second season of India's Got Latent is in development.