Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has once again found himself at the center of controversy after making remarks about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde during a recent performance. Kamra mocked Shinde, referring to him as a "traitor" while using the song "Dil To Pagal Hai," a move that quickly gained traction online and led to widespread criticism.
In response, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) workers vandalised the office of The Unicontinental Mumbai in Khar West, reportedly as retaliation for Kamra’s comments.
Sahil Shah's response to the controversy
Popular comedian Sahil Shah took to Instagram to share his disappointment regarding the vandalism. He expressed how his comedy will no longer involve certain elements so as to avoid violence. "As an Indian comedian you're stuck in this weird in between place where if you attempt to speak truth to power or push the line you get attacked for being too brazen...and if you stick to cracking simple jokes the audience starts to forget you for being too safe," he said.
"So hence forth to avoid all violence my entire next comedy special will be composed of only non sexual, non religious, non political, non sensitive, non humorous Whatsapp forwards. It's called "Good morning" and it's an hour of "Good morning messages". Will be touring India with show until some night time activists get angry at me for supporting Mornings and ruining the name of Indian night time culture," he added.
His satirical response went viral soon after he posted and netizens were found equally disappointed at the situation as he was. They responded to his post and sarcastically bashed freedom of speech in the nation. Instagram user Akarsha Naik wrote, "Thankyou! Anyway that's exactly what we deserve for voting for parties known for decades to suppress freedom of speech and expression. Let's witness all forms of art die before our eyes. Brb, I have to get back to making art about this issue in a twisted, concealed way so I am not targeted."
Another user named Uday said, "I think I want to get a standup routine at my office and make it as offensive as it can be. That place needs to shred to pieces. If vandalism is the new normal, better use it for my benefit."
This recent act of violence by workers of a political party has raised serious concerns over freedom of speech amongst people who share similar interest.
