Journalist Irshad Bhatti has issued a formal apology on X after intense backlash over his “inappropriate questions” during an interview with veteran actor Meera.

The podcast, intended to promote Meera’s upcoming film Psycho, went viral after Bhatti was seen pressing the actor about her past relationships. While Meera was seen calmly walking off the set, clips from the episode drew strong reactions on social media, questioning Bhatti’s lack of professionalism.

“To those who love me, watch me, listen to me, and expect better from me I apologize to all my friends for any hurt caused, and I also extend my apology to the respected film star Meera Sahiba. I have always believed that everyone is constantly learning at every moment. And if something goes wrong, even unintentionally, one should apologize once they realize it. And yes, I am grateful to all those close to me who helped me realize this [sic],” Bhatti wrote hours after he was bashed by netizens for a video statement explaining what went on the sidelines of the interview.

The journalist said he wanted to record Meera’s podcast but got to know that she doesn’t appear on podcasts for free. “Then a deal was struck on a certain amount and she agreed,” Bhatti said in the video, going on to detail a timeline of events wherein he talked about the actor making him wait for hours and cancelling appointments over several days earlier.

While his video statement was viewed by netizens as an “attempt to justify” his behaviour, internet has largely been supportive of Meera, with both celebrities and the general public praising her composure.