BookMyBai co-founder Anupam Sinhal has shared a troubling incident that led to the company’s decision to cease providing domestic workers to Bollywood celebrities nearly a decade ago. In an interview, Sinhal recounted how a domestic worker arrived at the office with burn marks on her body, a result of an accident involving an iron. He stated that the incident occurred when the worker accidentally burnt the clothes of a celebrity while ironing.

Sinhal described this event as a pivotal moment for the organisation, stating, “That is when we thought enough is enough and now we are not doing this anymore.” The incident underscores the vulnerability of domestic workers, whose employment often takes place in private homes, away from public oversight.

Sinhal’s comments raise important questions regarding the protections available to workers facing mistreatment in their roles. The experience of this worker highlighted the need for better safeguards in the domestic employment sector.

Current Status of the Celebrity Ban

When asked if the ban on providing services to celebrities remains in effect nearly ten years later, Sinhal provided a nuanced response. He confirmed that BookMyBai continues to deny requests from celebrities who approach the platform directly. However, he noted that exceptions can be made if a trusted contact vouches for the prospective employer.

Sinhal explained that if a celebrity reaches out directly for a domestic helper, the company outright refuses the request. He cited the example of Soni Razdan, the mother of actor Alia Bhatt, whose recommendation could lead to an accepted request. It is important to note that Razdan, rather than Bhatt herself, would initiate contact with the company in such instances.

According to Sinhal, the distinction lies in whether the request is unsolicited or supported by a trusted reference, allowing for some flexibility in the policy.

Positive Examples Among Celebrities

Despite the existing restrictions, Sinhal acknowledged that some celebrities treat their domestic staff with kindness and respect. He mentioned Alia Bhatt and Dia Mirza as examples of individuals who have shown consideration towards their workers. Additionally, he highlighted filmmaker Farah Khan and cricketer Rohit Sharma as other notable figures who have demonstrated generosity.

Sinhal recalled an instance where Bhatt provided ₹50 lakh to a cook employed through the company, encouraging him to use the funds to purchase a home. This gesture resulted in the worker acquiring a residence in Virar. He emphasised that while there are commendable employers among celebrities, they represent a small minority.

Sinhal also noted less severe but still concerning expectations placed on domestic workers, such as being required to stay awake until 4 am during parties, even if they did not wish to do so.

Impact of COVID-19 on Employer Attitudes

Sinhal observed that employer attitudes towards domestic workers have improved significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns. With part-time workers unable to travel to their employers’ homes, families had to manage household responsibilities on their own. This experience, he suggested, helped employers realise the extent of their reliance on domestic workers.

He also noted a shift in language, with workers increasingly being referred to as “domestic workers” rather than “servants.” Sinhal believes this change reflects a broader transformation in how society perceives their roles. Although major incidents have reportedly become less frequent among households served by his company, his account highlights the ongoing need for dignity, clear safeguards, and accountability in domestic work.

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