YouTuber Payal Malik Faces Backlash and Temple Service After Viral Kali Maa Video

Popular YouTuber Armaan Malik and his wives Payal and Kritika often find themselves in the limelight—whether for their unique family dynamic or their social media antics. This time, the spotlight is on Payal Malik, after a video where she dressed up as the Hindu goddess Kali went viral and triggered intense backlash online.

Payal Malik Punished For Creating Kali Maa Look Washed Pots In Temple

Payal Malik, addressing the controversy, offered a public apology, stating, “First of all, I want to sincerely apologize to everyone for that video. My daughter is a devoted follower of Kali Maa and always chants her name. I just wanted to create this look for my child, but perhaps I made a big mistake.”

The incident drew sharp criticism, with national secretary Deepanshu Sood alleging that her actions had hurt religious sentiments. Following calls for action, Payal visited the Kali Mata temple in Patiala, where she apologized publicly. She was also handed a punishment—one hour of temple service, including washing dishes used for the temple’s community meal and serving food to others.

Explaining the situation, Payal said, “My daughter Tooba is a big devotee of Kali Maa, so I created the look for her. Maybe I was wrong, and for that I apologize. I also urge other influencers not to do the same.”

A video of Payal’s apology and her temple service has since gone viral on social media, stirring mixed reactions. While some users empathized with her—“There is nothing wrong with this. Payal di, we’re with you!”—others felt the public outrage was unnecessary. “It’s common here to have Kali Maa shows; this is nothing. People just wanted someone to blame,” wrote another. Many noted that Payal’s intentions were not malicious, with one user commenting, “Every woman holds the form of the mother goddess within her; what’s wrong in expressing that?”

Payal Malik Apologizes Publicly & Punished for Creating Maa Kali Look, Washed Pots in Mandir

Although critics remain, many believe Payal has suffered enough and that her genuine apology and act of community service should be accepted. As public debate continues, the incident has opened new discussions around religious sentiment, social media responsibility, and the balance between creativity and respect for faith.

What do you think—was Payal Malik truly at fault? Share your opinion in the comments below. For more such updates, subscribe to Bollywood Pe Charcha.