Filmmaker Hansal Mehta and actor-MP Kangana Ranaut found themselves in a heated exchange over the recent controversy involving stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra. Kamra faced backlash, including vandalism at a Mumbai studio, after his jokes targeted Shiv Sena chief and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

The argument escalated when Ranaut took a dig at Mehta’s work, calling it “third-class” and accusing him of mediocrity and insecurity. Mehta kept his response brief, replying with “Get well soon.”

The exchange highlights the ongoing tensions around freedom of speech, political power, and artistic expression in India’s entertainment industry.

Responding to Mehta, Ranaut brought up her own 2020 clash with the Shiv Sena, when the BMC demolished parts of her Mumbai office, citing unauthorized construction. She claimed she was threatened, issued a late-night notice, and subjected to demolition before courts could intervene. The Bombay High Court later ruled the demolition illegal.

Mehta, voicing his concern over the attack on Kamra, recalled his own ordeal from 25 years ago when members of the undivided Shiv Sena vandalized his office and assaulted him over a line in his film. He described the experience as one that “bruised his spirit” and said such intimidation tactics stifle creativity. 

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