Comedian Anubhav Singh Bassi’s Lucknow Shows Cancelled Over Language Concerns. More Deets Inside!
Amid the controversy surrounding Ranveer Allahbadia and Samay Raina's India's Got Latent, Anubhav Singh Bassi's performances in Lucknow were cancelled.
It seems stand-up comedians are facing intense scrutiny these days, perhaps even more so than individuals involved in other potentially problematic or even illegal activities. Following the recent controversy surrounding Ranveer Allahbadia and Samay Raina’s India’s Got Latent, another incident has ignited the debate about free speech. Comedian Anubhav Singh Bassi’s scheduled performances in Lucknow were abruptly cancelled, and the internet is divided over it! Read on to know more.
Why Was Anubhav Singh Bassi’s Lucknow Show Cancelled?
A letter penned by a member of the Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission led to the cancellation of Bassi’s shows in Lucknow. Addressed to the Director General of Police, this letter expressed concerns regarding Anubhav Singh Bassi’s past comedy shows and language. The member alleged that Bassi’s performances often include inappropriate language and derogatory remarks aimed at women. The letter urged the police chief to intervene, either by ensuring Bassi refrains from such content during his Lucknow shows or, if that couldn’t be guaranteed, by cancelling the performances altogether. The member’s concern was that Bassi’s humour could “malign women.”
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The police subsequently acted on this request, citing potential law and order issues as the official reason for the cancellation. This incident has reignited the ongoing discussion about the boundaries of comedy and the responsibility of performers. Furthermore, those who support Bassi argue that comedy often pushes boundaries and uses satire. However, those who defend the cancellation stated that freedom of speech is not absolute. They argue that it should not be used as a justification for language that demeans or disrespects any group, including women.
First Published: February 17, 2025 10:50 AM
