Maharashtra Police Register FIR Over Rs 370 Biryani Remarks Against Comedian Pranav More and Crew

In what many are calling a textbook example of comedy meeting the law, the Maharashtra police on Tuesday registered a first information report (FIR) against popular Marathi comedian Pranav More, his producer Ashok Patil, and a handful of others. The FIR stems from remarks they made about a now‑famous “Rs 370 biryani” meme that went viral earlier this year.

The biryani joke, which originally circulated as a satirical take on skyrocketing food prices, quickly morphed into a political flashpoint. When More referenced the meme in a stand‑up routine and later in a short video posted on Instagram, a segment of netizens claimed the quip was mocking a particular community’s cultural symbols. The backlash was swift, with angry comments flooding his social‑media handles and a few heated YouTube threads popping up overnight.

According to the police statement, the complaint was lodged by a local activist who alleged that the comedian’s remarks were “deliberate, hateful, and intended to provoke communal disharmony.” The FIR cites sections of the Indian Penal Code dealing with hurting religious sentiments and inciting enmity, although the exact legal provisions have not been publicly disclosed.

Pranav More, known for his irreverent style and for pushing the envelope in Marathi comedy, has not remained silent. In a brief Instagram story, he said, “I’m a comedian, not a politician. I’m sorry if anyone took offense, but I never intended to hurt anyone’s feelings.” His producer, Ashok Patil, meanwhile, posted a more formal apology, promising to review the content and cooperate fully with the authorities.

The incident has reignited a broader debate in India about the limits of free speech, especially for entertainers. While some argue that jokes about everyday topics like food prices are harmless, others contend that public figures must tread carefully in a climate where satire can easily be misinterpreted. Legal experts suggest that such cases often hinge on the intent behind the words, making the upcoming investigation crucial.

For now, the FIR marks the latest legal hurdle for More and his team. Whether this will deter future comedic experiments or merely become another footnote in the ever‑evolving relationship between humor and law remains to be seen.