Kapil Sharma is a popular Indian comedian. His new show is ‘The Great Indian Kapil Show’. He has managed this show in a very short time. But in the meantime, an episode of this show has given rise to controversy. Because the poet, lyricist and producer Srijat of Opar Bengal has accused of making indecent gestures with the song ‘Ekla Chalo Re’ written by world poet Rabindranath Tagore.
Sreejat gave a long status on Facebook about the matter on Thursday (October 31) night; Which is being vigorously practiced. Many West Bengal artists and artists have commented in support of him.
Praising Kapil Sharma in the beginning, Srijat said, ‘I am a fan of actor and comedian Kapil Sharma. Talent, hard work, perseverance, fight, he lacked none. That is why today there is no lack of fame, money or prestige. I like it that way. This fairy-tale rise, the tour of the royal palace from this road. His contribution to taking comedians to the next level on television or OTT screens is undeniable, both in artistic and commercial contexts. Of course, he is not alone, in order to produce such a big event, many heads need to be united, who can move forward together by taking on a big project from various aspects.
There are few stars from home and abroad, who have not yet visited Kapil Sharma’s show. Referring to this information, Srijat said, ’For many years, Kapil has managed to organize such a team of his own. There are very few stars from different media of the country and abroad, who have not yet attended his event. As much as the invitees have contributed to making the show a success, so have Kapil Sharma’s co-stars, whose antics in every episode make the show more colorful and vibrant.’
Claiming that Kapil Sharma has done an injustice recently, Sreejat said, ‘This time the color is a little too high, that’s why
Sreejath said, “Five days ago, a new episode of ‘The Great Indian Kapil Show’ was added on Netflix, featuring actresses Kajal and Kriti Sanon among the guests. In the middle of that episode, one of Kapil’s assistants, comedian Krishna Abhishek (who writes himself as Krishna Abhishek) appears and chooses a Rabindranath song as a tool for banter, possibly because of Kajol’s Bengali descent. He didn’t choose suddenly, that’s how the script was arranged. Exactly what happened, how it happened, I am not telling details here. But the sarcastic gestures and words that Krishna Abhishek has evoked on the song ‘Ekla Chalo Re’ have gone far beyond the level of respect and decency, at least in my eyes. The episode is in place, anyone can watch it if they want and those who have already seen it, they know it well. I have given my written complaint and objection against this ugly presentation. I have filed a complaint against all those involved in creating, presenting, approving and broadcasting the comic. In plain language, in unequivocal pronunciation.”
Sreejat feels that there is a fine line between jokes and jokes. Referring to this information, he said, ’There is a fine line between jokes and jokes, it is dangerous when it gets blurred. Without thinking about what I am talking about, who I am talking about, how much I am talking about these things, people forget their own limits to be devoted only to people-laughing TRPs. Then you have to remind him, you should not have crossed this threshold. That’s what I’m doing. The name or work of Bengali sages can be made fun of at will, some residents of other parts of India think so. From Bengali language to culture, everything is food for them. Exactly because of which Amogha Leela Das got the urge to make fun of Vivekananda. Later he was forced to apologize when the tone of the dispute rose. But I have seen in different parts of India, Bengalis have a bit of a joke-Yorky attitude about everything.’
Throwing an arrow of accusation at Bengali actress Kajol, Sreejat said, ’When someone makes an unintentional mistake while speaking, he is one of a kind. But choosing the Bengali icon because I will look back I don’t see this as a new thing. I am sure, they would not have dared to make such an ugly joke with the lines of Ghalib, Kabir or Premchand. The show would have closed the next day. Bengalis are used to these jokes, so a Bengali can be made fun of, that too in front of a Bengali actress, who laughs at this joke.’
Explaining the reason for protesting this incident, Sreejat said, “If someone thinks that I am provincial in my writing, then there is nothing to do. But I am a proud provincial. Let me also say that it does not take provincialism to be outraged by the deliberate disrespect of the person who composed the national anthem for my country (not to mention many others). As an Indian citizen and a minor literary activist, I feel insulted and hurt in view of the denigration of Rabindranath Tagore and his songs in ‘The Great Indian Kapil Show’. I feel that this disrespect is not to Rabindranath alone but to all artists and cultural workers of Indian languages, Bengali being one of them.”
Referring to the deadline for the apology, Sreejat said, ‘I don’t know what will be the remedy. This unwritten right to make fun of the Bengali whose deeds and achievements made the whole world know India at one time, should be taken away whenever there is an opportunity. I don’t know how many will stand with me, but if not, I am protesting and demanding a public apology from ‘The Great Indian Kapil Show’. There was also a demand to re-edit that part of the said episode. If you let go, you can give. But how long and how far to leave, it is necessary to think. I’m a little guy, maybe nobody cares about what I want. But still I want. News today takes no more than seven seconds to reach. I set a time limit of seven days, humbly.’
“And yes, I am writing this post in consultation with one of the best lawyers in the matter, I have also informed that,” Sreejat said, warning of legal action if he did not apologize. If my demands are not accepted, considered and fulfilled by one week from today, i.e. November 7, 2024, I will take legal action. I will walk as a word worker of Bengali language. I will walk even if no one is with me. Because Rabindranath said, ‘If no one hears your call, then walk alone’!”
However, neither Kapil Sharma nor the show authorities have given any statement on this issue so far.
Bengal and India. We must remember that humor should not come at the cost of respect for our cultural icons and their contributions to society.
Sreejat’s words highlight a growing concern regarding how traditional and cultural references are treated in modern entertainment, particularly in comedy shows that often prioritize shock value and humor over sensitivity. The act of making fun of revered figures like Rabindranath Tagore under the guise of humor can perpetuate a culture of disrespect and trivialization of significant cultural contributions, something that Sreejat believes needs to be addressed and corrected.
The discourse ignited by Sreejat’s complaint serves as a reminder that comedic expression should be balanced with an understanding of context and the historical significance of the subjects being referenced. Comedy can be a platform for critique and reflection but should not cross the line into mockery that diminishes the essence and legacy of cultural icons.
Through his protest, Sreejat advocates for a more conscientious approach to humor in media, one that values artists and their work while still allowing space for lightheartedness and creativity. His stance resonates with many who cherish their cultural heritage and believe that it should be honored rather than ridiculed.