Stand-up comedian admits ‘lapse in judgment’ as NCW summons him over viral remarks that triggered nationwide backlash
Stand-up comedian Pranit More has issued a second public apology following widespread criticism over remarks made during a crowd-work segment at one of his comedy shows. The controversy, popularly referred to as the "Rs 370 Biryani" row, has attracted attention from the National Commission for Women (NCW), political leaders, civic authorities, and social media users, reigniting debate over the limits of comedy, consent, and public responsibility.
New Delhi: Stand-up comedian and former reality television contestant Pranit More has issued a second public apology after facing intense backlash over comments made during a crowd interaction segment at one of his live shows.
The controversy erupted after a viral video showed More laughing at remarks made by an audience member who suggested that spending ₹370 on a plate of chicken biryani during a date entitled him to receive sexual favours in return. The clip sparked outrage online, with critics accusing the comedian of normalising misogynistic attitudes and failing to challenge problematic behaviour on stage.
Must Read: Pranit More Controversy Shows Why Fame Is Easy but Responsibility Is Hard
As criticism mounted, More's social media account was reportedly deactivated, and a cyber police case was registered alleging the dissemination of obscene and objectionable content.
Pranit More Admits ‘Lapse in Judgment’In his latest apology, More acknowledged that he should have intervened during the interaction instead of allowing the comments to continue.
“I deserve this hate. That man said many derogatory things, but everyone was laughing, so I also got carried away. This was a big mistake. I could have stopped him then and there and taken a stand,” More said in his statement.
The comedian further admitted that providing a platform for the remarks contributed to the controversy escalating rapidly.
“I gave him a platform and that escalated matters so fast. I want to apologise to all those who got hurt,” he added.
More also appealed for a second chance, assuring audiences that he would learn from the incident and work towards becoming a better individual and performer.
How the Rs 370 Biryani Controversy BeganThe controversy originated during a comedy show in Gurugram where More was interacting with audience members.
During the exchange, web developer Himanshu Jangra narrated an incident involving a date during which he claimed to have spent ₹370 on chicken biryani. According to Jangra, when the woman later requested that he drop her home, he sought sexual favours in return for the amount spent.
The remark drew laughter from sections of the audience, while More was seen laughing during the interaction.
The video quickly spread across social media platforms, triggering widespread condemnation and debate regarding consent, gender sensitivity, and the responsibilities of public performers. Following the backlash, both More and Jangra issued public apologies.
National Commission for Women Summons Pranit More and Himanshu JangraThe National Commission for Women (NCW) on Thursday summoned both More and Jangra, stating that their conduct and remarks appeared to glorify sexual coercion and non-consensual behaviour towards women.
The commission sought explanations from both individuals and expressed concern over the influence such content could have on public attitudes.
The incident has become a broader conversation about accountability in digital entertainment and live performance spaces.
Employment Action Against Audience MemberAccording to reports, Himanshu Jangra's employment was terminated following the widespread criticism surrounding the viral clip.
The development further intensified public discussion about personal accountability and the consequences of controversial public statements in the digital era.
Sejal Pawar Clip Adds to Public OutrageAs the controversy unfolded, another clip from More's show resurfaced online and generated fresh criticism. The video featured MBBS student Sejal Pawar making remarks about medical cadavers and male bodies used during anatomy education.
The comments were widely criticised as insensitive and disrespectful to the dignity of deceased individuals.
Following the backlash, Pawar issued a public apology and removed several social media posts.
KEM Hospital Orders InquiryKEM Hospital constituted a two-member committee to examine the remarks attributed to Pawar.
Hospital Dean Dr. Harish M. Pathak described the comments as unacceptable, while officials stressed the importance of maintaining professional ethics and respect for human dignity.
The inquiry is expected to assess whether the remarks violated institutional standards and professional conduct expectations.
Mumbai Mayor Calls for Ethical Content CreationMumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde strongly criticised the trend of using vulgar or offensive content in the name of entertainment.
She urged artists, influencers, comedians, and digital content creators to exercise greater social responsibility while producing content for public consumption.
“Vulgarity and hateful comments cannot be tolerated in the name of entertainment,” she said.
The mayor also encouraged citizens to reject content that promotes misogyny, hatred, or obscenity.
Devendra Fadnavis on Freedom of Expression and DignityResponding to the controversy, Devendra Fadnavis emphasised that freedom of expression must be balanced with respect for individual dignity.
“Everyone has the right to freedom of expression. But freedom of expression should not become a licence. No one should violate the dignity of others. One person's expression should not infringe upon another person's right to live with dignity,” Fadnavis said.
His remarks have been widely cited as part of the ongoing debate surrounding the boundaries of comedy and public discourse.
Debate Over Comedy and Accountability ContinuesThe Pranit More controversy has evolved into a wider discussion about the responsibilities that accompany public influence in the digital age.
While comedians and creators continue to enjoy freedom of expression, the incident has highlighted growing expectations around ethical content creation, gender sensitivity, and accountability.
As investigations and inquiries continue, the controversy remains a significant example of how viral moments can rapidly evolve into national conversations about social values, consent, and public responsibility.
