BookMyBai founder recalls burn-mark incident that led to Bollywood celebrity ban nearly a decade ago

BookMyBai co-founder Anupam Sinhal disclosed the incident that led to his company banning domestic workers for Bollywood celebrities nearly a decade ago. Sinhal recounted an unfortunate event where a domestic worker brought burn marks to the company's office after accidentally burning the clothes of a Bollywood celebrity while ironing.

The celebrity's decision to stop using the company followed this incident, according to Sinhal. This act of violence and negligence sparked a turning point for BookMyBai, prompting the company to halt providing domestic workers to celebrities. Sinhal's revelation sheds light on the precarious situation of domestic workers, who often work in private homes without public oversight.

The company continues to refuse direct requests from celebrities, except when a trusted contact, like a parent or close friend, vouches for them. Bhatt, Alia Bhatt's mother, is an example of someone who can make an exception. Sinhal also mentioned several celebrities, such as Alia Bhatt, Dia Mirza, Farah Khan, Rohit Sharma, and Tina Datta, who have shown respect towards their domestic staff.

Despite the restrictions, Sinhal acknowledged that some celebrities treat their domestic workers with kindness and generosity. However, he also highlighted concerning situations where wealthy employers expected domestic workers to work late hours during parties against their will. Sinhal noted that the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns improved employer behavior.

Families now manage household responsibilities without relying on domestic workers, who were increasingly recognized as "domestic workers" rather than just "servants." Sinhal emphasized the need for dignity, clear safeguards, and accountability for domestic work.