'Great Indian Kapil Show' makers slammed by Bengali poet Srijato for 'insulting' Tagore song 'Ekla Cholo Re'

Comedian talk show host Kapil Sharma has sparked the ire of renowned Bengali poet-lyricist Srijato. The poet has threatened to file a lawsuit against the producers of ‘The Great Indian Kapil Show’ for allegedly “denigrating” Rabindranath Tagore’s masterpiece, ‘ Ekla Cholo Re’. Srijato claimed on social media that comedian Krushna Abhishek, who is part of Kapil Sharma’s team, mocked a revered song in a way that crossed acceptable limits.

Speaking to TOI, Srijato expressed his disappointment, noting that he had no intention to hurt anyone but felt deeply affected as both a Bengali and a writer. In his statement, he demanded an apology and insisted that the controversial segment be re-edited within seven days, warning that he would pursue legal action if his requests weren’t met.

"The episode, featuring guests Kajol and Kriti Sanon, included a segment where Krushna Abhishek made fun of Rabindranath Tagore’s song 'Ekla Cholo Re,' presumably because Kajol has Bengali roots," Srijato explained. "This wasn't an off-the-cuff act; it was clearly scripted. I won’t go into detail about the incident, but Krushna’s gestures and comments toward the song were disrespectful and inappropriate."

During the segment, Krushna joked with Kajol, saying, “I never go alone.” Kapil responded with, “Ekla Cholo Re,” but Krushna then joked, “In life, always go with a group. Once I was alone and got surrounded by dogs; I know what I went through that day. It’s better to go with two, three, or five people.” Srijato, having consulted a prominent lawyer, stated that if his demands were not addressed by November 7, he would proceed legally, adding, "Tagore is monumental, and as a Bengali and writer, I am deeply hurt. If my demands are not met, I’ll take legal steps as a voice for Bengali culture.”

When asked if he was overreacting to slapstick humor, Srijato clarified, "This isn’t solely about Tagore. You can’t treat anyone with disrespect. Entertain as you wish, but don’t demean. Would any show invite Javed Akhtar only to insult Ghalib? I doubt it. We Bengalis have often ignored such offenses, but this needs a response. Kajol, being Bengali, could have refused this script. I certainly wouldn’t have agreed. Show creators must be reminded some boundaries must not be crossed."

In response, Krushna, currently in Los Angeles, told TOI, “Neither I nor my team intended to offend anyone. We’re here to entertain, not to hurt. I’ll speak with the creative team to see what can be done.”