The controversy surrounding comedian Pranit More’s viral crowdwork video continues to generate debate online. This time, the spotlight is back on Himanshu Jangra, the audience member whose “Rs 370 biryani” comment triggered widespread criticism, discussions on consent, and questions about the boundaries of comedy. In a recently released video shared by Starvik Design, the company where he was previously employed, Jangra addressed the backlash and described the personal consequences he says he has faced since the clip went viral. The Gurgaon-based professional claimed the controversy cost him his job, brought legal complications, and deeply affected his family.
The statement comes days after both Jangra and Pranit More issued public apologies over the incident, which has remained one of the most discussed topics on Indian social media platforms this month.
What Did Himanshu Jangra Say About The Backlash?
Speaking in the video, Jangra described the past few days as one of the most difficult periods of his life. According to him, members of his family were initially unaware of the controversy. He said the situation escalated when relatives learned about the viral clip and the growing criticism directed at him online. Jangra claimed that the trolling intensified over time rather than fading away. He further stated that concerns within his family grew after reports emerged that he had lost his job and received notice regarding an FIR linked to the controversy.
The viral attention surrounding the clip has transformed what began as a crowd interaction during a comedy performance into a larger public debate, attracting reactions from celebrities, influencers and social media users.
Watch The Video Here:
Why Did The ‘Rs 370 Biryani’ Remark Spark Such Outrage?
The controversy began after Pranit More uploaded a crowdwork segment from one of his stand-up shows. During the interaction, Jangra recounted a story about taking a woman on a date and paying Rs 370 for a plate of chicken biryani. He then suggested that he deserved a “return” on that spending, a remark that many social media users interpreted as reducing consent and personal agency to a financial transaction. The clip quickly spread across platforms, drawing criticism from activists, content creators and public figures. Many argued that the joke reflected problematic attitudes towards women and consent.
While the original comment came from Jangra, criticism also extended to More, who was accused of laughing along with the story and later uploading it online.
Was The Story Real Or Made Up?
In his latest statement, Jangra insisted that the story was not meant to be taken literally. According to him, he improvised the narrative during the crowd interaction after hearing similar stories from other audience members at the show. He claimed his intention was to entertain rather than express his personal beliefs. Jangra maintained that the remarks did not reflect his actual mindset and said he never intended to offend anyone. He also pointed out that the audience and host appeared to treat the exchange as humour at the time.
However, he acknowledged that watching the clip again made him regret the way he presented the story.
How Has Pranit More Responded To The Controversy?
The controversy has also significantly affected Pranit More. The comedian initially issued a written apology, stating that the views expressed by the audience member did not reflect his own. Later, he released a video apology in which he admitted he should have intervened instead of laughing and moving on. More acknowledged that by allowing the moment to pass unchallenged and subsequently uploading it, he contributed to the clip’s amplification. Several public figures have weighed in on the matter. While some demanded accountability, others argued that the backlash should not overshadow the importance of education around consent and gender sensitivity.
The incident has since evolved into a wider conversation about comedy culture, audience participation, misogyny, and the responsibilities of performers when controversial remarks are made on stage. As social media continues to debate the issue, both Jangra and More appear to be attempting damage control. Whether the controversy fades or remains part of a broader cultural discussion may depend on how audiences choose to interpret the lessons emerging from it.
