I'm Indian American and I never found Apu offensive. But that's me. As a kid growing up in NYC, I had friends from all over the world, and ethnic humor was often used in that frank way that New Yorkers have. Maybe that's why I have a thick skin. I have a German friend who finds Hogan's Heroes somewhat offensive but he wouldn't try to ban it. There are scenes in BBT with Raj which shade into almost-offensive... but, again... I've seen Bollywood films where they've made fun of fat people, Sikhs, etc., for the sake of humor, so, honestly, if people want to get offended they can go anywhere to find it.