KOLKATA: Reactions started pouring in from across Kolkata after YouTuber and podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia, known online as BeerBiceps, sparked controversy by directing an inappropriate question about parents to a participant on comedian Samay Raina’s show “India’s Got Latent“.
Actor Kharaj Mukhopadhyay said he would not like to be even in the audience of any show involving sexual jokes regarding parents. “Jokes on various issues have been part of our culture. It is always important to understand the motive behind the joke. Is it being said in good humour or to insult? I would never crack a joke like that. Nor would I enjoy a show where such jokes are cracked. That is not in our culture.”
According to content creator and actor Mir, some creators are often delirious. “Their success virtually becomes like a gate pass to open more doors. Often, it doesn’t particularly matter whether or not it is in good taste. I am not for moral policing since that is something that the czars would do in a non-democratic structure, but there have to be some boundaries we ourselves will have to establish,” Mir said.
Self-censorship and evaluation are essential, he emphasised. “One must understand what can be expressed in a public space in India. One can go to a country like Georgia where the definition of freedom of speech is so elaborate that people don’t care. I also must point out that people who are calling for Ranveer’s head now peculiarly remain silent on far more crucial issues that plague our senses and sensitivities,” Mir added.
Many agree that Indians are still not used to the concept of roasting. According to stand-up comic Ankita Ghosh, who performed in the city on Friday, people ought to remember that “India’s Got Latent” draws inspiration from the globally renowned show “Kill Tony”, where comedians deliver minute-long performances whilst panel guests subsequently roast them. “The prevailing atmosphere and demeanour are merely jovial repartee. The overall mood and tone is of lighthearted banter. Nothing said by anyone is taken seriously. We need to remember that while passing judgement about this incident!” Ghosh said.
Ghosh believes that anything is permissible in comedy provided it elicits genuine laughter. “I’ve witnessed legends like Ricky Gervais deliver remarkably provocative jokes, but I harbour no objections as long as they induce mirth,” she said. Irreverence in comedy is deemed to be cool abroad, said Mir. “People like Hasan Minhaj have been doing that for years in New York. Years ago, Russell Peters started saying the same thing,” Mir said.
Ghosh asserts she shall not alter her script because of this incident. Her repertoire includes a generous portion of intimate humour poking fun at her personal life. “Initially, some would feel uncomfortable at my jokes. But from my experience of performing globally, I believe women and LGBTQ peeps thoroughly appreciate that sort of humour,” Ghosh said.