MNS Issues Warning to Kapil Sharma
The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has issued a stern warning to comedian-actor Kapil Sharma over references to Mumbai as “Bombay” or “Bambai” on his Netflix series, The Great Indian Kapil Show. The party has demanded that Sharma and his guests use the city’s official name, Mumbai, in all future episodes.
According to Ameya Khopkar, president of the MNS film wing, using outdated names for the city is disrespectful to its identity. He cautioned that if this practice continues, the party will launch a strong agitation against the show.
Mumbai’s Name and MNS’s Stand
Khopkar stressed that Mumbai has been Sharma’s “karmabhoomi” and holds a special place in the lives of its residents. He urged the comedian to correct the usage immediately if it was unintentional.
He also asked Sharma to ensure that celebrities on the show avoid using the term “Bombay.” Khopkar added that while cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata are always addressed correctly, Mumbai continues to be called by its old name in Bollywood and television.
The city was officially renamed Mumbai in 1995 by the Maharashtra Government and recognized by the Centre in 1996. However, the use of “Bombay” remains common in film circles and even among some politicians.
Examples from the Show
MNS pointed to specific episodes where stars, including Huma Qureshi and Saqib Saleem, referred to the city as Bombay while narrating personal stories. The party views this as an avoidable error that disrespects the state’s cultural identity.
Khopkar clarified that the warning is not politically motivated or tied to upcoming local body elections. Instead, he described it as part of a long-standing campaign to ensure Mumbai’s official name is respected.
He said, “Keep elections aside, the name of this city is Mumbai. Those who do not call it so will have to face our anger.”
About The Great Indian Kapil Show
The Great Indian Kapil Show premiered in June 2025 on Netflix and features Sharma along with popular comedians Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, and Sunil Grover. The show also includes recurring appearances from Archana Puran Singh and Navjot Singh Sidhu.
Now in its third season, the show has gained a wide audience for its humor and celebrity guest line-up. However, the MNS warning has sparked fresh debate over cultural sensitivity and the importance of official place names in popular media.
Public and Industry Reaction
The controversy has divided public opinion. While some argue that “Bombay” is historically entrenched in popular culture, others believe it is time to respect the official name.
Industry insiders note that similar warnings from MNS in the past have led to compliance from film and television producers. Observers now wait to see how Sharma responds, as the warning could impact the show’s format and guest interactions.
For now, MNS has left the door open for correction. However, it has made it clear that continued use of the old name will invite strong protests.