MNS Warns Kapil Sharma to Stop Calling Mumbai ‘Bombay’

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has issued a stern warning to comedian and actor Kapil Sharma, urging him to refrain from referring to Mumbai as “Bombay” or “Bambai” on his show. MNS leader Ameya Khopkar stated that if Sharma does not comply, the party will initiate a “strong agitation.” This announcement was made during a press briefing in Mumbai on October 26, 2023.

Khopkar emphasized the importance of using the city’s official name, stating, “The name of this city is Mumbai. On Kapil Sharma’s show, we have seen for a long time that the city is referred to as Bombay or Bambai. We oppose this.” He expressed the sentiments of many residents, highlighting that using the correct name is not just a matter of preference but a matter of respect.

The warning follows a notable meeting between Uddhav Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT), and Raj Thackeray, president of the MNS, which has sparked discussions about a potential alliance ahead of upcoming local body elections. Khopkar’s remarks reflect ongoing tensions surrounding regional identity and the significance of Mumbai’s name.

In his statement, Khopkar urged Sharma to remind guests on his show to use “Mumbai” instead of outdated terms. He said, “If this has happened by mistake, then correct the mistake… Whoever comes on your show, whether they are celebrities or the anchor, tell them first that they must not call Mumbai ‘Bombay’ or ‘Bambai.’ They must say Mumbai.”

The third season of “The Great Indian Kapil Show,” which is available on Netflix, premiered on June 21, 2023. Khopkar called on Sharma to be more mindful of the city’s name, which he described as being “in our hearts.”

When questioned about the timing of the warning regarding local elections, Khopkar reiterated that the MNS has long been vocal about this issue, stating, “We have been agitating on this issue for the past many years. Keep elections aside, the name of this city is Mumbai.”

The MNS’s stance is part of a broader cultural movement advocating for the recognition and respect of local identities. As discussions about the city’s name continue, Sharma’s response to the MNS’s warning remains to be seen.