March 25, 2025: BJP MP and actress Kangana Ranaut has responded to the controversy surrounding comedian Kunal Kamra's parody act, questioning the credibility of individuals who, according to her, defame others for "two minutes of fame."
Kamra's stand-up performance included a satirical take on Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, where he referenced him as a "gaddar" (traitor) in a parody of a popular Bollywood song. His act also touched upon recent political events, including the Shiv Sena and NCP splits, sparking backlash from political circles.
Ranaut, reacting to the controversy, stated, "We should think about where society is heading when someone does this only for two minutes of fame... Insulting and defaming someone who values their respect—who are these people, and what are their credentials?" She further criticized the use of comedy to, in her words, "abuse people and culture."
Defending the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) demolition of a temporary structure at the hotel where Kamra's show was filmed, Ranaut contrasted the situation with the 2020 demolition of her Bandra bungalow by the then Uddhav Thackeray-led BMC. She claimed that while the recent action was legal, the one against her property was illegal.
The controversy has also drawn strong reactions from Eknath Shinde, who likened Kamra's jibe to taking a "supari" (contract) to speak against someone. While acknowledging freedom of speech, Shinde emphasized that satire should have its limits. "Action causes reaction," he said, adding that while he does not justify vandalism, those making comments should maintain decorum.
The issue escalated when Shiv Sena members vandalized the Habitat Comedy Club in Mumbai's Khar area, where Kamra performed, along with parts of the hotel premises. Kamra, however, has stood his ground, refusing to apologize and condemning the destruction of the venue.
As debates on free speech, satire, and political sensitivities continue, the incident has once again highlighted the growing tensions between political leaders and stand-up comedians in India.
STORY HIGHLIGHTS
Kangana Ranaut Reacts to Kunal Kamra Controversy, Defends Demolition of Hotel Venue
March 25, 2025: BJP MP and actress Kangana Ranaut has responded to the controversy surrounding comedian Kunal Kamra's parody act, questioning the credibility of individuals who, according to her, defame others for "two minutes of fame."
Kamra's stand-up performance included a satirical take on Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, where he referenced him as a "gaddar" (traitor) in a parody of a popular Bollywood song. His act also touched upon recent political events, including the Shiv Sena and NCP splits, sparking backlash from political circles.
Ranaut, reacting to the controversy, stated, "We should think about where society is heading when someone does this only for two minutes of fame... Insulting and defaming someone who values their respect—who are these people, and what are their credentials?" She further criticized the use of comedy to, in her words, "abuse people and culture."
Defending the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) demolition of a temporary structure at the hotel where Kamra's show was filmed, Ranaut contrasted the situation with the 2020 demolition of her Bandra bungalow by the then Uddhav Thackeray-led BMC. She claimed that while the recent action was legal, the one against her property was illegal.
The controversy has also drawn strong reactions from Eknath Shinde, who likened Kamra's jibe to taking a "supari" (contract) to speak against someone. While acknowledging freedom of speech, Shinde emphasized that satire should have its limits. "Action causes reaction," he said, adding that while he does not justify vandalism, those making comments should maintain decorum.
The issue escalated when Shiv Sena members vandalized the Habitat Comedy Club in Mumbai's Khar area, where Kamra performed, along with parts of the hotel premises. Kamra, however, has stood his ground, refusing to apologize and condemning the destruction of the venue.
As debates on free speech, satire, and political sensitivities continue, the incident has once again highlighted the growing tensions between political leaders and stand-up comedians in India.