Comedian Kunal Kamra, who recently found himself in the midst of controversy after making a joke about Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has issued a witty and bold statement addressing the backlash. Kamra's remark led to a mob of Shiv Sena workers vandalizing the Habitat Centre, the venue where he had performed. However, the stand-up comic, known for his sharp humor, responded to the situation with his signature blend of sarcasm and humor, making a statement that’s both defiant and, as always, amusing.
The statement began with Kamra addressing the mob directly: "To the Mob That Decided That Habitat Should Not Stand: An entertainment venue is merely a platform. A space for all sorts of shows. Habitat (or any other venue) is not responsible for my comedy, nor does it have any power or control over what I say or do. Neither does any political party. Attacking a venue for a comedian's words is as senseless as overturning a lorry carrying tomatoes, because you didn't like the butter chicken you were served."
Kamra then turned his attention to the political leaders threatening him, pointing out that the right to freedom of speech is not meant to serve only those in power. He continued: "Our right to freedom of speech and expression is not only to be used to fawn over the powerful and rich even though today's media would have us believe otherwise. Your inability to take a joke at the expense of a powerful public figure does not change the nature of my right. As far as I know, it is not against the law to poke fun at our leaders and the circus that is our political system.”
He also made it clear that while he is willing to cooperate with the authorities for any lawful action, he questioned whether the law would be fairly applied to those who engaged in the violence. Kamra quipped, “Perhaps for my next venue, I will opt for Elphinstone bridge, or any other structure in Mumbai that's in need of speedy demolition.”
Kamra also poked fun at those attempting to harass him by leaking his phone number and calling him nonstop, adding, “I am sure you've realised by now that all unknown calls go to my voicemail, where you will be subjected to the very song that you hate.”
Finally, he didn’t hold back in addressing the media and the state of press freedom in India. "To the media faithfully reporting this circus: Remember that press freedom in India ranks at 159," Kamra stated. He ended his response with a defiant note: "I will not apologise. What I said is exactly what Mr. Ajit Pawar (1st deputy CM) said about Mr. Eknath Shinde (2nd Deputy CM). I don't fear this mob & I will not be hiding under my bed, waiting for this to die down.”
Kunal Kamra’s response has sparked both admiration and criticism, but it’s clear that he’s standing firm on his right to express himself. His refusal to back down from his comedy and his sharp commentary on the situation reflect his unflinching approach to the growing culture of cancel culture and political intolerance.
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