Tannishtha told BT, “They still don't get it! Do they? It's common sense. I was on the show for the publicity of my film anyway because it is popular. I can laugh at myself. But the roast was about a regressive prejudice and my protest is against its propagation. I don't want to get into the 'he said, she said' debate. I am all for the freedom of speech and have not called for any sort of ban or restriction on the show. I just strongly voiced my opinion as I have a right to. It's up to the channel and their consciousness to decide what they want to do with the episode. I am overwhelmed by the support I've been getting. I hope this movement is constant and not short-lived.“

Explaining her stand, she stated, “I have nothing against the show. My issue is against the regressive mindset. I don't want to trivialise the issue.“ Tannishtha says, “By all means crack jokes on my complexion but do that by breaking stereotypes, not reinforcing them. What's so new about calling someone black, fat or bald? It's what some kids do in school because their parents don't teach them how to behave. What's so humorous about it?“ We point out that American roasts are often brutal as well. Ann Coulter, a political commentator was torn to shreds by her fellow roasters and targeted mercilessly for her support to Donald Trump. She was called a 'transvestite wh*** and 'this is what an abortion looks like' on the show, shocking many. Tannishtha, strongly reacted, “Just because the Americans do it, doesn't mean it's right and people object to racial slurs even there.“

While Indians are obsessed with light skin, the West too is obsessed with tan lotions. The actress, however, rightly points out the difference. She argues, “But they tan their skin to look exotic. They are proud of their white skin, unlike us. They are not apologetic about it.“

Of the many reactions Tannishtha got for speaking out loud, actress Ayesha Dharker's reaction was most effective. She wrote to Tannishtha (excerpts), “This is not humour, it is prejudice. Thank you for calling it what it is. Do not spend one more moment of energy on this issue which now they will love to make you the spokesperson for. You don't represent dark-skinned actresses, you represent talent and brilliant storytelling. They will grow up someday and if they don't, it is not your job to help them. Love and strength.“

Zoya Akhtar wrote, “I am so so sorry you had to experience this but you will survive coz you know better and you are better. What worries me is the state of our unaware brothers and sisters. Mired in prejudice and cut off from anything true. They don't know beauty, humour or self-worth. Those are the ones I am terrified for. Big hug and thank you for sharing.“