Facing mounting backlash over the now-infamous “Rs 370 biryani” controversy, stand-up comedian Pranit More has issued a second public apology, admitting that his failure to challenge a misogynistic remark made during his show was a “serious lapse in judgment.”
Stand-up comedian Pranit More has issued a public apology and deactivated his Instagram account following intense criticism over two viral clips from his recent comedy shows. The controversy erupted after a crowd-work video went viral in which an audience member made derogatory… pic.twitter.com/1Kfnb2c5Yr
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The controversy erupted after a crowd interaction during More’s Gurugram performance. A web developer, Himanshu Jangra, narrated how he spent Rs 370 on a plate of chicken biryani for a woman and later expected sexual favours in return when she asked to be dropped home. Instead of intervening, More laughed along with the audience, a reaction that triggered widespread outrage online.
Days after his social media account was deactivated and a cyber police case was registered against him for allegedly spreading obscene and objectionable content, More acknowledged his mistake. “I deserve the criticism,” he said, adding that he got carried away by the crowd’s reaction and failed to take a stand when it mattered. He admitted that by allowing the conversation to continue, he inadvertently amplified the offensive remarks. Seeking a second chance, More promised to learn from the episode and reflect that growth through his future work.
The fallout has extended beyond the comedian. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has summoned both More and Jangra, observing that their conduct appeared to normalise sexual coercion and non-consensual behaviour. Jangra has since lost his job following the controversy.
The scrutiny intensified after another clip from More’s show surfaced, featuring MBBS student Sejal Pawar making insensitive remarks about medical cadavers and male bodies used for educational purposes. The comments drew sharp criticism, prompting an apology from Pawar and an internal probe by Mumbai’s KEM Hospital.
Political leaders and civic authorities have also weighed in. Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde condemned the use of vulgarity and misogyny in the name of entertainment, urging content creators to exercise social responsibility. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis echoed similar concerns, stating that while freedom of expression is essential, it cannot come at the cost of another person’s dignity.
The controversy has reignited debate over where comedy ends and accountability begins, particularly when jokes and crowd interactions venture into territory involving misogyny, coercion, and disrespect for the dead.
