Kunal Kamra, a popular stand-up comedian known for his bold and often controversial humor, has stirred up a major political controversy in Maharashtra. Recently, Kamra made headlines by parodying the famous Hindi song "Dil Toh Pagal Hai," with a humorous twist targeting Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde. While Kamra didn't directly name Shinde, his lyrics — describing a man from Thane with a beard and glasses — clearly pointed to him. Kamra also joked about the political shifts in Maharashtra, like the breakup of the Shiv Sena and NCP parties.

Kamra’s remarks angered Shinde’s supporters, leading to protests by Shiv Sena workers. They vandalized the Habitat stand-up comedy studio in Mumbai, where Kamra had performed. An FIR was filed, and the culprits were arrested but later released on bail. However, days later, the BMC demolished the studio’s illegal structures, raising suspicions of political revenge.

The situation escalated when Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel filed an FIR against Kamra, demanding an apology within two days. Patel even threatened to publicly humiliate Kamra by blackening his face if he was seen in public. Kamra reportedly received threatening calls, including death threats, from some Shiv Sena supporters. Meanwhile, some members of the opposition, particularly Shiv Sena (UBT), defended Kamra, condemning the attack and calling it a cowardly act. Leaders like Aaditya Thackeray and Sanjay Raut voiced their support for Kamra, questioning the state’s law and order situation.

In response, Kamra posted a picture of himself holding a pocket-sized version of the Indian Constitution on social media, with the caption, "The only way forward." This was a clear message in defense of free speech.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis criticized Kamra’s comments as disrespectful, asking him to apologize to Eknath Shinde. Eknath Shinde himself stated that while freedom of speech is important, there should be limits, and Kamra’s comments seemed like a “contract” to attack someone.

The controversy surrounding Kamra’s jokes has sparked mixed reactions. Many on social media have pointed out Kamra's past involvement in controversial incidents, including his 2020 altercation with journalist Arnab Goswami on a flight, and his support for the demolition of actress Kangana Ranaut’s office in Mumbai. Critics argue that Kamra has double standards, as he once mocked the destruction of Kangana’s property but now condemns the same kind of action against his own studio.

While many comedians like Raju Srivastav have made fun of politicians without crossing any lines, Kamra’s brand of humor is often more political. This has led to a debate over whether his comments were appropriate for stand-up comedy or too political.

So, what do you think? Were Kamra’s comments fair for a comedian, or did they cross the line into politics? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Tags

• kunal kamra
• eknath shinde
• habitat studio

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