BHUBANESWAR: Papu Pom Pom alias Tatwa Prakash Satpathy has courted controversy once again after mimicking internet sensation Ranu Mondal.
The comedian, who landed in a soup recently over the poster of his upcoming movie ‘Mr Kanhaiya’, has been widely criticised once again by comedians and satirists of the city.
Even though he has mimicked many personalities in the past, this particular act was said to be in bad taste as Ranu Mondal has turned out to be a source of inspiration for many with her ‘rags to riches’ story.
Interacting with Orissa Post, Akash Baghar, a city-based comedian, said, “There are two ways of making a joke about somebody: Punching Up and Punching Down. The former is done to people enjoying privilege, the latter to people who don’t. It’s always advisable to punch up.”
Satyabrat Mohapatra said, “Papu is always entangled in controversies. I saw the video and found nothing offensive. Every comedian puts up a video or post solely for the purpose of entertaining his audience. Artistes should have creative liberty.”
Priyaranjan Sahoo, a political satirist, said, “As far as artistic freedom is concerned, everyone is at liberty. However, in this particular case, it is in bad taste. A good humorist should never punch down. Mimicking Naveen Pattnaik is punching up whereas mimicking Ranu Mandal is punching down. I would also say that banning him or lodging an FIR would be too harsh.”
Gyana Hota, a poet and satirist, said, “Humour should never be based on the poor. As artistes, we must be responsible and not cross our limits.” Comedian Alokesh Sinha said, “I have always supported freedom of speech. As comedians, our only job is to make people laugh. However, we also have the responsibility to sensitise people on various issues.”
“Making fun of Ranu Mondal is inappropriate. She has reached the pinnacle of glory as she is very talented. I would also say that the video isn’t funny either,” he added.
Arindam Ganguly, OP
