‘I Deserve the Hate’: Comedian Pranit More Breaks Silence on Viral Biryani Row, Admits ‘Lapse in Judgement’

The controversy surrounding stand-up comedian Pranit More has taken a new turn after the performer issued a public apology over a viral crowd-work clip that sparked outrage on social media and attracted legal scrutiny.

In a video shared on Instagram, More acknowledged that he made a serious error in judgement during a live performance and admitted that he should have stepped in when inappropriate comments were made by an audience member. His statement comes amid an ongoing investigation by Maharashtra Cyber, which has registered a case related to allegedly objectionable content circulated online.

“I Got Carried Away,” Says More

Addressing his followers directly, More explained that he had intended to respond to the controversy earlier but was unable to do so after his Instagram account was temporarily suspended.

The comedian said the atmosphere of the live show influenced his decision-making, leading him to overlook comments that he now believes should have been challenged immediately.

According to More, the crowd’s reaction and laughter during the interaction caused him to lose perspective, resulting in what he described as a significant mistake.

He admitted that the criticism directed at him was understandable and said he accepts responsibility for providing a platform where offensive remarks were allowed to continue unchecked.

Comedian Accepts Responsibility

In his apology, More stated that he had multiple opportunities to stop the conversation or take a stand against the remarks being made but failed to do so.

The comedian acknowledged that by allowing the exchange to continue, he unintentionally amplified comments that many viewers later found offensive and hurtful.

Expressing regret, he apologised to those affected by the incident and promised to learn from the experience.

More also assured his audience that he intends to improve both personally and professionally, adding that future content would reflect the lessons learned from the controversy.

Legal Investigation Underway

The issue escalated further after Maharashtra Cyber registered a First Information Report (FIR) against More and several others in connection with the circulation of content from a stand-up comedy event held in Gurugram.

Authorities allege that videos from the performance were uploaded and shared across platforms such as YouTube and Instagram, containing material that was allegedly obscene or objectionable in nature.

The FIR reportedly includes names such as Himanshu Jangra and Dr. Sejal Pawar, among others.

Investigators claim that some clips contained remarks related to women, consent, deceased individuals and medical cadavers, raising concerns over dignity, sensitivity and public decency.

The case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 as well as Section 67 of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

Political Reactions Intensify Debate

The controversy has also moved beyond the comedy circuit and entered the political arena.

Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde publicly criticised the content and called for a ban on stand-up comedy shows, arguing that such performances should align with Indian cultural values.

Tawde announced her intention to write to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, urging stricter oversight of comedy events.

Her remarks quickly triggered wider discussions about artistic freedom, censorship and the boundaries of humour in contemporary India.

Freedom of Expression vs Responsibility

Responding to the growing debate, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasised that freedom of expression remains a constitutional right but noted that it should be exercised responsibly.

His comments reflected a broader conversation currently taking place across India regarding where society should draw the line between creative expression and content considered offensive or harmful.

The controversy has reignited questions about the role of comedians, content creators and digital platforms in shaping public discourse, especially in an era where a single viral clip can reach millions within hours.

A Defining Moment for Online Comedy?

For Pranit More, the incident could prove to be a significant turning point in his career.

While his apology has been welcomed by some sections of the public, others believe the legal process should continue independently. Meanwhile, supporters argue that the controversy highlights the need for clearer distinctions between comedy, crowd interaction and accountability.

As investigations proceed, the case is likely to remain part of a larger national discussion on the limits of humour, social responsibility and freedom of speech in the digital age.

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