Mumbai witnessed a political and cultural flashpoint
recently as Rahool Kanal, a leader from the Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde
faction), was arrested along with 11 other party workers for
vandalizing the Habitat Studio. The incident followed a controversial
joke made by stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, allegedly targeting Maharashtra
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
What Led to the Vandalism?
Kunal Kamra, known for his sharp political satire, performed
at Habitat Comedy Club inside Unicontinental Hotel, Khar. During
his set, he allegedly referred to Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor) and
sang a parody mocking him.
This did not sit well with the Shiv Sena’s Shinde faction,
and the party workers decided to confront the studio's owner, Balraj,
about the show. However, things quickly escalated.
"We initially just wanted to talk, but Balraj
misbehaved with us. His arrogant attitude triggered everything, and it happened
in the heat of the moment," said Rahool Kanal, defending his
actions in an interview with The Indian Express.
The Attack and Arrests
The Shiv Sena workers stormed into the venue,
damaging property and creating chaos. Following the vandalism, Mumbai Police
arrested all 12 Shiv Sena workers, including Kanal. However, they were granted
bail within hours.
Kanal, who has been associated with Mumbai’s Bollywood
circles and political scene, insisted that the attack was not preplanned:
"We didn’t go there with the intention to vandalize.
But Balraj’s response triggered it."
Complaint Against Kunal Kamra
Not stopping at the vandalism, Rahool Kanal has also filed
a police complaint against Kunal Kamra, alleging financial
irregularities in Kamra’s YouTube channel. Kanal has urged authorities to
investigate whether money is being funneled for unlawful purposes.
Who is Rahool Kanal?
Rahool Kanal has been an active political figure in
Mumbai, with strong ties to Bollywood and business circles:
- Formerly
a close aide of Aaditya Thackeray, Kanal was part of the Shiv
Sena (UBT) before switching to Eknath Shinde’s faction in July 2023.
- A
well-known restaurateur, he owns Bhaijaanz, a Bandra-based
restaurant inspired by Salman Khan.
- Runs
an NGO called "I Love Mumbai" and was a trustee of the Shri
Saibaba Sansthan Trust.
Political and Cultural Divide
This controversy once again highlights the growing
tension between political factions and artists in India. Kunal Kamra has
been a vocal critic of the BJP and Shiv Sena's right-wing politics,
making him a frequent target of political groups.
While Kamra continues to perform despite political pressure,
the vandalism at Habitat Studio raises concerns over freedom of expression
and the growing intolerance towards political satire.