‘I won’t hide, I don’t fear this mob’: Kunal Kamra breaks silence on ‘Gaddar’ remark row

Amid the backlash, Habitat Studio announced its closure on Monday after its premises were vandalised by Shiv Sena workers.

Comedian Kunal Kamra on Monday released his first statement following the controversy over his ‘gaddar’ remark on Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde. Kamra defended his right to free speech, criticized the targeting of Mumbai’s Habitat Studio, and questioned the selective application of the law.

"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," he wrote in a social media post.

My Statement - pic.twitter.com/QZ6NchIcsM

Kunal Kamra (@kunalkamra88) March 24, 2025

Slamming the vandalism at Habitat Studio by Shiv Sena workers, he said, "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 also alleged that Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) officials arrived at Habitat without prior notice and tore down parts of the venue. "Perhaps for my next venue, I will opt for Elphinstone bridge or any other structure in Mumbai that’s in need of speedy demolition," he added.

The controversy erupted after Kamra performed a parody song on Sunday referring to Shinde as a "traitor." This led to protests, vandalism at the venue, and an inspection by the BMC, which later cited unauthorized construction. Habitat Studio announced its closure following the incident.

Kamra maintained that he will cooperate with the authorities but refused to apologize. "I don't fear this mob, and I will not be hiding under my bed, waiting for this to die down," he stated.

His comments come after BMC officials inspected the Habitat Studio and found an unauthorised shed at its entrance. Officials said the structure was removed by the venue management after they were served a notice.

Amid the backlash, Habitat Studio announced its closure on Monday after its premises were vandalised by Shiv Sena workers. The incident followed Kamra’s Sunday performance, where he sang a parody song referring to Eknath Shinde as a "traitor." The remark triggered strong political reactions in the state.