Though Apu is just one character, he has remained the apex of Indian TV characters for the entirety of The Simpsons’ run, and his broad mannerisms are suspected of limiting the presence and inclusion of Indian and other South-Asian TV characters over the years.
At least in roles that aren’t convenience store clerks and/or taxi drivers.
While people have been saying “d’oh” about Hank Azaria’s Apu performance for years, everything really blew up with the recent release of the documentary The Problem with Apu, in which comedian Hari Kondabolu presents his respectful and strong-willed argument for why Apu is largely responsible for the long-lasting stereotypes and misguided opinions concerning Indian culture.