Rahul Gandhi Faces BJP Criticism Over Comedian’s PM Modi Skit At Indore Event

BJP leaders have lambasted Congress president Rahul Gandhi following a satirical act performed by stand-up comedian Pulkit Mani during a Congress function in Indore where he impersonated Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his speech, gesticulations and appearance.

The performance took place on Saturday during the Congress programme ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’, where Gandhi joined Mani on stage. The act subsequently drew criticism from BJP leaders, who objected to the manner in which the Prime Minister was portrayed.

BJP Spokesperson Attacks Stage Performance

BJP spokesperson, CR Kesavan said the performance was not appropriate and that Gandhi was wrong in taking part in it.

In a post on X, Kesavan characterised the act as “foul-mouthed antics” and argued that such performances were not appropriate for a political leader. He also linked his criticism to earlier remarks by Congress leader Shashi Tharoor about Gandhi’s ability to connect with young people.

Kesavan also commented on Gandhi's decision to become a part of the crude form of political satire, which he believed affected the Congress leader's image.

The remarks came after a video of the stage performance circulated and triggered criticism from BJP supporters and leaders.

Comedian Mimics PM Modi During Congress Event

During the performance, Pulkit Mani adopted an exaggerated version of Modi’s speaking style and mannerisms. He also imitated the Prime Minister’s conversational interactions with foreign leaders, repeatedly using the expression “my friend” as part of the act.

At one point, Mani addressed Gandhi with the line, “How are you, my friend?” Gandhi responded by addressing the comedian in the style of the Prime Minister, saying, “How are you, Modi ji.”

A portion of the performance was also seen as drawing from an earlier public incident involving Modi at a BJP rally, where the Prime Minister had asked organisers to arrange a chair for an elderly woman attending the event.

Political Row Over Satire

The episode has created another point of conflict between the BJP and the Congress which has often bawked at each other in the tone of their political messaging, speeches and campaign events.

The BJP has voiced its disapproval of the depiction of Modi, but the act was when the Congress convened to address students and youth.

The controversy centres on the participation of Gandhi in the skit and the use of a satirical imitation of the Prime Minister at a political event. BJP leaders have framed the episode as evidence of inappropriate political conduct, while the performance itself was presented as comedy and political satire.

The criticism comes amid continuing political exchanges between the BJP and Congress, with leaders of both parties using public events and social media to attack their opponents.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Susmita Modak

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Always love to raise the unraised matter. In a world of worries, I am always ready to come over my comfort zone and taking the step ahead of spreading awareness.

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