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A new video featuring former Indian Premier League (IPL) president Lalit Modi and fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya has sparked fresh outrage on social media, with many accusing the duo of openly mocking Indian authorities. The clip, which went viral, shows the two men partying together in London, where Modi sarcastically refers to himself and Mallya as “India’s biggest fugitives.”
The video was shared by Modi on his Instagram account with the caption: “Let’s break down the internet again in India. Happy birthday my friend #VijayMallya. I love you.” The post quickly drew criticism, with users questioning how two high-profile economic offenders could publicly flaunt their lifestyle while continuing to evade Indian law enforcement.
Modi and Mallya have lived outside India for years. Modi left the country in 2010 after being removed as IPL president over allegations of financial irregularities, including bid-rigging and money laundering. Mallya fled India in 2016 following the collapse of Kingfisher Airlines and numerous lawsuits over unpaid bank loans. One user commenting on the post wrote: “What a mockery they made of the Indian government,” echoing a sentiment widely shared online.
The video is not an isolated case. Earlier this month, Lalit Modi hosted a lavish birthday celebration in London to mark Vijay Mallya’s 70th birthday. Modi described the gathering at his London residence as an “incredible celebration”, attended by friends and family who would have traveled from all over the world. Calling Mallya the ‘King of Goodtimes’, Modi said the occasion marked a ‘crossed cornerstone’ and wished him happiness and success for the years to come.
Photographer Jim Rydell later shared a photo of Modi and Mallya on X, thanking Modi for throwing what he called a “fabulous pre-70th birthday party.” Modi then greeted the guests in another message, again referring to Mallya as his friend and expressing gratitude to those present.
Reports suggest the guest list included prominent names such as Biocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, actor Idris Elba and fashion designer Manoviraj Khosla, with images of the event circulating widely online. The visuals sparked heavy criticism, with many questioning how the two could enjoy such high-profile social gatherings while facing serious legal action in India.
Vijay Mallya, the former owner of Kingfisher Airlines, faces charges related to an alleged bank loan fraud exceeding ₹9,000 crore and continues to contest his extradition from the UK.
