15 October,2026 09:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Harsh Gujral and Madhur Virli pic via Instagram
Stand-up comedians Harsh Gujral and Madhur Virli have been summoned by the Maharashtra Cyber Cell over allegations of using vulgar and objectionable remarks during their comedy acts. The two comedians have been asked to appear before the Maharashtra Cyber Cell for questioning on October 19. The investigation was initiated after a complaint was filed by a woman, as reported by India Today and Moneycontrol.
The latest development comes as comedians and digital creators face increased scrutiny over allegedly obscene content. In February 2025, Samay Raina's YouTube show India's Got Latent found itself at the centre of a major controversy following jokes made on an episode, which garnered widespread criticism and legal attention.
Other digital personalities, including Pranit More, Apoorva Mukhija and Ranveer Allahbadia, had also faced public scrutiny over comments made in separate performances and shows.
Besides the stand-up circuit, Harsh Gujral has also ventured into films and television. He essayed Rehan Qureshi in the 2025 comedy film Mere Husband Ki Biwi, which features Arjun Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar and Rakul Preet Singh. He has also appeared on shows such as The Kapil Sharma Show and Madness Machayenge - India Ko Hasayenge, and featured in reality shows including The Traitors and Khatron Ke Khiladi.
Virli, meanwhile, landed himself in a controversy in June 2026 after an old clip from his stand-up show Love & Latex grabbed attention online. The clip featured a joke about rape that generated widespread backlash.
The comedian subsequently publicly apologised for his remark, saying he had recognised the joke was inappropriate and had deleted the segment online. He also admitted that sensitive topics require care and discretion.
Neither Gujral nor Virli has publicly addressed the allegations so far. Further details regarding the case are awaited
