MNS Warns Kapil Sharma Over ‘Bombay’ Remark on Netflix Show

Comedian Kapil Sharma has drawn the ire of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) for using the term “Bombay” or “Bambai” instead of Mumbai on his Netflix series The Great Indian Kapil Show. The party has issued a stern warning, calling it an insult to the city and its people.

MNS spokesperson Ameya Khopkar, in a post on X, shared a clip from an episode featuring Shilpa Shetty, Shamita Shetty, Huma Qureshi, and Saqib Saleem. In the video, Huma referred to the city as “Bombay,” while speaking about her bond with her brother.

In Marathi, Khopkar wrote, “Even though 30 years have passed since Bombay was officially renamed Mumbai, the term is still frequently used on Kapil Sharma’s show, by Bollywood celebrities, MPs, anchors, and in films. It was officially recognised by the Maharashtra government in 1995 and by the Centre in 1996. Therefore, a humble request-cum-warning is being issued to respect this and use the name Mumbai.” He tagged both Sharma and Netflix in his post.

Later, speaking to the media, Khopkar said, “Kapil Sharma has been working in Mumbai for so many years. This is his karmabhoomi. The people of Mumbai like him and watch his shows. Mumbai is in our hearts. Don’t insult this city, don’t insult its people. I am warning Kapil Sharma. If this happened by mistake, then correct it. Tell every guest and anchor to use the word Mumbai. If not, MNS will launch a strong agitation.”

Meanwhile, Sharma is hosting the third season of The Great Indian Kapil Show on Netflix, which first premiered in 2024. The show, featuring Archana Puran Singh, Sunil Grover, and Kiku Sharda, has so far released two seasons with 13 episodes each.