The Indian comedy circuit is buzzing after veteran stand-up comedian and Laughter Challenge winner Sunil Pal took a sharp swipe at the nature of The Kapil Sharma Show. In a recent interview that has since gone viral, Pal expressed his dissatisfaction with the format and the guest selection of the country’s most popular comedy talk show. Using a stinging metaphor, he remarked, “Yahan toh langar laga rehta hai,” suggesting that the show has become a place where anyone and everyone is invited regardless of their stature or contribution to the industry. Pal argued that the sanctity of such a massive platform is being diluted because the show’s doors seem open to social media influencers and minor celebrities who haven’t “earned” their spot through years of hard work.
Sunil Pal’s critique stems from a belief that comedy shows should prioritize seasoned talent and meaningful entertainment over mere viral trends. He pointed out that while Kapil Sharma is undoubtedly a brilliant performer, the inclusion of too many guests in a single episode makes it feel less like an exclusive talk show and more like a crowded community feast (langar). According to Pal, this “open-door policy” takes away from the prestige that the show once held. He reminisced about a time when appearing on a national television show was a milestone achieved after decades of struggle, contrasting it with the current era where a few viral reels can land someone a seat on Kapil’s famous sofa.
This isn’t the first time Sunil Pal has been vocal about his opinions on modern comedy. Known for his “clean” observational humor, he has previously criticized the rise of “vulgar” or “double-meaning” jokes in the stand-up scene. His latest comments regarding Kapil Sharma have divided fans on social media. While some agree that the show’s quality has dipped due to over-commercialization and repetitive guest appearances, others defend Kapil, stating that the show provides a much-needed platform for rising digital stars and diverse talents. They argue that the “langar” approach is actually a sign of inclusivity and a reflection of the changing landscape of Indian entertainment.
Despite the harsh words, Kapil Sharma has yet to offer an official response to Pal’s remarks. Historically, Kapil has maintained a respectful distance from such controversies, focusing instead on his transition to global streaming platforms. However, Pal’s statement has reignited a debate about the evolution of Indian television. As the lines between traditional media and digital stardom continue to blur, veteran artists like Sunil Pal seem to be struggling with the shift in values. Whether this critique will prompt a change in the show’s format remains to be seen, but for now, the “langar” comment has certainly stirred the pot in the world of Indian comedy.
