Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Jun 13: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday weighed in on the controversy surrounding the ‘Rs 370 biryani’ remark made during a stand-up comedy show by comedian Pranit More, saying entertainers must exercise responsibility and respect social boundaries.
Fadnavis said that while stand-up comedy is a popular form of entertainment, performers should ensure that humour does not cross the limits of decency and dignity.
“While everyone enjoys stand-up comedy, and I watch it myself, it is not right to violate societal boundaries or the limits of dignity in the pursuit of entertainment. That would amount to an injustice against people. Therefore, I feel that stand-up comedy should be performed with due regard for at least the minimum parameters of dignity,” he said.
His remarks came a day after Maharashtra Cyber registered an FIR against More and several others in connection with the controversy linked to a recent show held in Gurugram.
The FIR was also filed against Himanshu Jangra, Dr Sejal Pawar and others allegedly involved in the incident. According to reports, the case was registered at the Nodal Cyber Police Station under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and the Information Technology Act, 2000.
The accused have been charged with allegedly making obscene, offensive and objectionable remarks relating to women, consent and deceased persons. Maharashtra Cyber has reportedly summoned those named in the FIR for questioning.
The controversy erupted after a video clip from one of More's live performances went viral on social media. During the show, audience member Himanshu Jangra was invited on stage and spoke about spending Rs 370 on biryani during a date.
The remarks triggered outrage after Jangra allegedly suggested that spending money on the meal entitled him to expect intimacy in return. Critics accused him of reducing relationships to a financial transaction and objectifying women.
The incident sparked widespread debate online, with many social media users condemning the comments and calling for action against those involved.
Police investigations into the matter are continuing.