Shiv Sena Leader Rahool Kanal Arrested After Threatening Kunal Kamra Over Joke on Eknath Shinde

Shiv Sena worker Rahool Kanal has issued a direct threat to stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra following the vandalism of a Mumbai studio and a hotel by Sena members.

The uproar stems from Kamra’s joke about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, which has sparked a political storm.

Rahool Kanal’s Threat to Kunal Kamra

Rahool Kanal, a Shiv Sena worker, openly threatened Kamra, saying, “Abhi tak toh ye trailer hai, picture abhi baki hai (This was just a trailer, the entire film is left).” Kanal made the remarks while speaking to news agency ANI and was later arrested along with 11 other Sena workers for their involvement in the vandalism.

Defending the attack, Kanal said it wasn’t about breaking the law but about self-respect. “When it comes to elders or respectable citizens of the country… when your elders are targeted, you will target someone of that mentality,” Kanal stated. He also warned that Kamra would be taught a “good lesson” in “Shiv Sena style” if he comes to Mumbai again.

Kanal is not the only Sena member to threaten Kamra. Sanjay Nirupam has also warned of physical retaliation, while Sena MP Naresh Mhaske declared that Kamra would be chased out of the country if necessary.

The Joke That Sparked the Outrage

The controversy began when Kamra, during a stand-up show, referred to Eknath Shinde as a “traitor” for splitting the Shiv Sena and aligning with the BJP.

Kamra also posted a spoof video of the Bollywood song Dil To Pagal Hai, making references to a “leader from Thane” and Shinde’s relationship with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

The video went viral, angering Shiv Sena workers who stormed Mumbai’s Habitat Studio, where the show was recorded, and a nearby hotel. Visuals from the scene showed Sena members smashing ceiling structures with chairs and creating chaos.

Habitat Studio Responds

Habitat Studio condemned Kamra’s comments and clarified that they had no involvement in the video’s production. However, the violence forced them to shut down operations temporarily.

In an Instagram statement, Habitat Studio wrote, “We urge constructive conversations, not destruction, to address disagreements. We do not support hate or harm of any kind. Violence and destruction undermine the very spirit of art and dialogue.”

The statement added that artists are solely responsible for their content and that the studio should not be held accountable for performers’ views. “We are shocked, worried, and extremely broken by the recent acts of vandalism targeting us.”

Kamra’s Response to the Controversy

Kamra responded with a four-word tweet, sharing a picture of himself holding a red Constitution book. This book has been used by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as a symbol during political campaigns.

Kamra has told police that he stands by his “traitor” remark and will only apologize if directed to do so by the courts.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar have both demanded an apology from Kamra, accusing him of crossing the line of free speech.

Police sources confirmed that Kamra denied rumors of being paid by political opponents to attack Shinde. He also gave permission for investigators to review his financial records to confirm that no such payment was made.

Political Fallout and Legal Action

The Mumbai studio where Kamra performed was partially demolished by the city’s civic body following the vandalism, citing an unspecified violation. Despite the attack, none of the top leaders of the Sena-BJP alliance have condemned the violence.

Several police complaints have been filed against Kamra, including one by Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik. Kamra, however, has stated that he will cooperate with the investigation but currently remains outside Mumbai.

Opposition leaders have criticized the Sena’s actions. Aaditya Thackeray labeled Shinde an “insecure coward,” while Priyanka Chaturvedi pointed out that Kamra never explicitly named Shinde. “Their vandalism shows that it hurt them and that there is truth in the joke,” she said.

Impact on Habitat Studio

Located in Mumbai’s Khar area, Habitat Studio has been a key venue for stand-up comedy, poetry, and music events. Over the years, prominent artists such as Abish Mathew, Biswa Kalyan Rath, Tanmay Bhat, and Rohan Joshi have performed there.

The studio also hosted screenings of short films, including gatherings with director Imtiaz Ali. The venue, with a seating capacity of around 60-70, was also known for its intimate atmosphere and creative events.

Following the incident, several upcoming events at Habitat Studio have been canceled, including:

• Stories on Stage (March 26)
• Almost All Stars (March 27 – May 9)
• Not a Crowdwork Comedy Show (until May 23)
• Mushaira Night (April 2)
• Storytellers Night (April 9)

The venue’s owner, Balraj Singh Ghai, stated that they are reconsidering how to provide a platform for creative expression without jeopardizing their property and safety.

The controversy over Kamra’s joke reflects the increasing tension between political expression and artistic freedom in Maharashtra.

While Kamra remains defiant, the vandalism at Habitat Studio raises serious concerns about the boundaries of political retaliation and free speech.