“T-Series, Stop Being A Stooge”: Why Kunal Kamra Said This
Mumbai, March 26 – Comedian Kunal Kamra has accused T-Series of issuing a copyright infringement notice against one of his parody videos, following his recent satirical act targeting Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Kamra took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a screenshot of a YouTube notification flagging his video for copyright violation, calling the move an attempt to stifle parody and satire.
Kamra’s Response to T-Series
Slamming the music giant, Kamra wrote:
“Hello @TSeries, stop being a stooge. Parody & satire come under fair use legally. I haven’t used the lyrics or the original instrumental of the song. If you take this video down, every cover song/dance video can be taken down. Creators, please take note of it.”
He also criticised monopolies in India, likening them to a “mafia,” and urged viewers to download his special before it could be removed.
The Fallout from Kamra’s Satirical Act
Kamra, known for his sharp political humour, has faced significant backlash from Shinde’s supporters after incorporating a parody song mocking the Shiv Sena leader in one of his stand-up acts. On Sunday night, Shiv Sena activists vandalised the Habitat Comedy Club in Mumbai’s Khar suburb, where Kamra had performed. The club, located inside a hotel, bore the brunt of political outrage, with its premises damaged by the mob.
Kamra’s Defence: Free Speech and Political Satire
In response to the controversy, Kamra issued a lengthy statement addressing the vandalism and the threats against him. He condemned the attack on the venue, arguing that a performance space should not be held accountable for the content of a comedian’s act.
“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,” he remarked.
Kamra also challenged political leaders who threatened to “teach him a lesson,” asserting his right to free speech. He stated that making fun of politicians was not illegal and questioned whether the law would be equally applied to those resorting to vandalism.
“Our right to freedom of speech and expression is not just meant for praising the powerful. Your inability to take a joke does not change my right to satire. Will the law also hold accountable those who tore down Habitat with hammers?” he asked.
Unapologetic Stance Amid Threats
Despite facing online harassment, including leaked personal details and incessant calls, Kamra stood firm. He revealed that unknown callers were being directed to his voicemail, which played the very song that had sparked outrage.
Taking a dig at the state of press freedom in India, he noted that the country ranks 159th globally, implying a broader issue with free speech.
“I will not apologise. What I said is exactly what Ajit Pawar (the first Deputy CM) said about Eknath Shinde (the second Deputy CM). I don’t fear this mob, and I will not be hiding under my bed, waiting for this to die down,” he declared.
