Comedian Pulkit Mani cancels shows following PM Modi mimicry controversy

Comedian Pulkit Mani has cancelled upcoming stand-up performances in Noida, Lucknow, and Kanpur, citing “repeated threats from goon activists.” The cancellations follow a political controversy stemming from a performance in Indore.

Mani appeared alongside Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ event on September 19. During the program, Mani performed a skit in which he mimicked the mannerisms and speaking style of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A video of the act, shared by the Congress party on social media, drew sharp criticism from the BJP, which accused the Congress of turning politics into a “circus.”

Mani reported receiving hate messages on social media following the circulation of the video. While he initially cited “unforeseen circumstances” for the Noida show, he specifically attributed the cancellations in Lucknow and Kanpur to threats from activists. It remains unclear whether the comedian or the venues initiated the cancellations.