Kunal Kamra’s latest roast: Calls out Narayana Murthy’s 70-hour workweek advice and Sudha Murty’s ‘middle-class’ persona

Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has once again drawn public attention with his sharp satirical remarks during his recent performance at the 'Naya Bharat' show in Mumbai. Known for his politically charged comedy, Kamra’s latest act took aim at several high-profile figures, including author and Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murty and her husband, Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy.
His jokes criticised Sudha Murty’s advocacy for simplicity and Narayana Murthy’s recent 70-hour workweek suggestion, sparking debate across social and political circles. The event escalated into a larger controversy as Kamra also made political remarks that led to protests, legal action, and divided public opinion.

During his 45-minute performance, Kamra humorously criticized Sudha Murty’s widely acknowledged simple lifestyle, suggesting that it was a carefully maintained public image. He said, “Jo ameer hojate hai aur so middle class hone ki acting karte hai, unme see ek mahan aurat hai, uska naam hai Sudha Murty. Simplicity ki moorat hai who. Uska wohi claim hai ki mein simple hun. Aur usne apni simplicity pe pachaas kitaab likhi hai…har kitaab ka point yeahi hai ki woh simple hai.” His comments were seen as a critique of how public figures often craft narratives that may not fully align with reality.

Kamra also directed his satire at Narayana Murthy’s suggestion that young Indians should work 70 hours per week to boost economic growth. He recounted a fictional anecdote in which Sudha Murty purchased mangoes at a lower price than a woman dressed in corporate attire. “I simply went to the mango seller, and he told me that the lady had a modern corporate job in this international company called Infosys. Now you understand why Narayan Murthy wants you to work for 70 hours a week.”

Beyond corporate culture, Kamra’s performance also included political satire, particularly targeting Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. He humorously labeled Shinde a ‘gaddar’ (traitor) through a parody of the song Bholi Si Surat. This segment of his performance led to a strong backlash from Shinde’s supporters, culminating in the alleged vandalism of the Habitat studio in Mumbai’s Khar area by workers from the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction). Following the incident, Mumbai Police booked Kamra for his remarks, while 40 Shiv Sena workers were charged with vandalizing the venue.
In response to Kamra’s statements, Shinde asserted that while freedom of speech is important, it should have limits. He accused Kamra of targeting political figures as part of a larger agenda, saying, “This same person has commented on the Supreme Court, the prime minister, Arnab Goswami, and industrialists. This is not freedom of speech; this is working for someone.”

Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut also commented on the controversy, criticizing Kamra’s approach to comedy. Speaking to ANI, she expressed concern over the direction in which public discourse was heading. Ranaut stated, “We should think where society is heading when someone does this only for two minutes of fame. Abusing people and our culture in the name of comedy is unacceptable.” She also compared Kamra’s legal troubles to her own past conflicts, claiming that the demolition of her bungalow was an unlawful act against her.

Kunal Kamra has a history of provocative political satire that has drawn both support and criticism. Over the years, he has openly challenged various prominent figures, including the Supreme Court of India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and journalist Arnab Goswami. His bold comedic style has led to multiple legal cases and public debates about the boundaries of satire and free speech in India.