In the wake of his provocative comments about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, comedian Kunal Kamra has requested more time to appear before the Mumbai Police. Sources close to Kamra reveal that he has been receiving numerous death threats from members of Shinde’s party, Shiv Sena, with at least 500 threatening calls reported.
These threats reportedly include ominous messages promising to “cut him to pieces.” The controversy erupted after Kamra performed a satirical rendition of the song “Bholi si surat” from the 1997 film Dil To Pagal Hai, subtly referencing Shinde without naming him. The term ‘gaddar’ (traitor) used in the act was perceived as a jab at Shinde’s decision to split the Shiv Sena in 2022 and align with the BJP, which ultimately led to the downfall of the Uddhav Thackeray-led government in Maharashtra.
Vandalism and Legal Action
Following the release of Kamra’s show on YouTube, Shiv Sena workers vandalized the Habitat Comedy Club in Khar, where the performance took place. The police arrested 12 individuals connected to the Sena, who were later granted bail.
In response to Kamra’s remarks, Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel filed a case against him, which is currently under investigation by the Khar police. The police have requested Kamra’s presence for questioning. According to sources, Kamra has communicated with an officer at the Khar police station, asking for a week’s time to comply with the request, although he was urged to cooperate sooner.
Despite the threats and legal challenges, Kamra has expressed his intent to cooperate with the investigation and reiterated that he does not regret his comments. On Tuesday, he shared a video juxtaposing footage of Shiv Sena workers vandalizing the comedy club with another satirical song from his special.
In a twist to the well-known “hum honge kamyaab” (we shall overcome), he altered the lyrics to “hum honge kangaal” (we shall be bankrupt), providing a humorous yet pointed commentary on the situation. The video showcases Sena workers destroying property, burning Kamra’s photo, and preparing to set fire to an effigy of the comedian, all while flashing victory signs after being granted bail.
One of the arrested Sena members, Rahool Kanal, addressed the media with a warning, suggesting that the vandalism was merely a prelude to more severe consequences for Kamra. “It is not about taking the law into your own hands. It is about self-respect. When elders or respected citizens are targeted, a response is warranted,” he stated, hinting at further actions to come.
As the situation unfolds, the clash between comedy and politics continues to escalate, highlighting the tensions surrounding freedom of expression in India.
