The Bengal Story Bureau: Mumbai-based stand-up comedian Pranit More has issued an unconditional public apology following a severe online backlash over his viral video critiquing a high-priced biryani dish. The comedian released a video statement on his social media handles, appealing to internet users to halt the ongoing cyberbullying campaign against him.
The apology comes shortly after major industry figures, including reality television personality Munawar Faruqui, publicly defended More and expressed deep concern over the psychological toll of coordinated digital harassment.
An Appeal for Restraint
In his video message, a visibly distressed More expressed regret for any unintended offense caused by his satirical review of a Rs 370 plate of biryani served at an upscale Mumbai restaurant.
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“I am deeply sorry if my video hurt anyone’s sentiments or the reputation of any establishment. It was meant to be light-hearted comedy, but I realize it did not come across that way,” More said. He urged social media users to move past the incident, adding, “Please give me a chance. The continuous trolling has become incredibly difficult to handle for me and my family.”
The controversy erupted last week when More shared a short clip humorously contrasting the small portion size and high cost of premium restaurant food with the city’s traditional street-side eateries.
Industry Highlights Cyberbullying Risks
While More’s food commentary was viewed as routine observational humour by some, it quickly triggered a massive wave of personal attacks, insults, and derogatory memes across multiple digital platforms.
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The intensity of the backlash prompted Munawar Faruqui to intervene through a public broadcast, warning internet mobs that relentless cyberbullying could lead to a tragedy. Faruqui questioned the volatile nature of social media reception, asking audiences to maintain basic empathy even when disagreeing with a creator’s content.
With More officially tendering an apology and appealing for a resolution, several members of the Indian digital creator community have called for stricter guidelines against organized online harassment, highlighting how quickly casual content can escalate into a severe mental health crisis for independent artists.
