Comedy Hub The Habitat Shuts Down Following Attack Over Kunal Kamra Video

A few weeks ago, Samay Raina's India's Got Latent grabbed headlines after Ranveer Allahbadia made an obscene comment on the show. Now, comedian Kunal Kamra has sparked fresh controversy with a viral video in which he refers to a minister as a 'Gaddar'. Interestingly, the common link between both incidents is The Habitat, a popular studio in Khar, Mumbai.

On Sunday night, after Kamra's video gained traction, workers from Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena faction vandalized the studio where the comedian had performed. In the wake of the attack, The Habitat has decided to shut down indefinitely.

Addressing the incident, The Habitat released a statement on Instagram, expressing their distress over being targeted. The note read: "We are shocked, worried, and deeply hurt by the recent acts of vandalism. Artists are solely responsible for their views and creative choices. We have never been involved in the content performed by any artist, yet we continue to be blamed and targeted, as if we are a proxy for their performances."

The studio further stated, "We are shutting down until we find a way to provide a platform for free expression without jeopardizing our safety and property. We invite all artists, audiences, and stakeholders to share their views and help us navigate this situation while respecting performers' rights."

The Habitat emphasized its neutral stance towards all artists and called for constructive dialogue rather than destruction. Their statement concluded with a powerful message: "Violence and destruction undermine the very spirit of art and dialogue."

This isn't the first time the studio has faced backlash. During the India's Got Latent controversy, protests erupted outside the venue, prompting police intervention.

Owned by Balraj Singh Ghai, a close associate of Samay Raina, The Habitat has been a hub for stand-up comedy and live performances. With its doors now closed, regular audiences who once enjoyed shows at the venue are left disappointed, uncertain about its future.