Kunal Kamra fans donate lakhs of money after Eknath Shinde controversy, hail him for ‘doing comedy like it’s journalism’

Support for comedian Kunal Kamra has poured in from fans across the world, not just in words but also in wallets. Amid the controversy over his alleged roast of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, viewers have started donating significant amounts of money.

In the comments section of his YouTube video, fans are seen donating amounts ranging from ₹400 to ₹10,000. International support is pouring in, too, including contributions in US dollars, British pounds, Canadian dollars and UAE dirhams. The total donations so far must have crossed a few lakhs.

Several fans are urging him to start a fundraiser, promising to pay for any legal bills he may face for “pulling no punches”. They’re applauding his courage, honesty and ability to hold the powerful accountable through humour.

“Thanks for doing comedy like it’s journalism,” said one while another wrote, “You’re doing more for India than many in power.”

Some comments call him a “national treasure”, a “hero of free speech” and someone who gives “hope in dark times”. One donor wrote, “When I look at you, I feel there is still some hope for this country! Satyamev Jayate!.”

“Thank you for what you are doing,” wrote someone who gave him ₹10,000.

“From a true fan, you have given up everything for your pursuit of truth and humour. Keep it up!” said another, who also gave him ₹10,000.

“I don't know how else to support your bravery and compassion,” came from someone who gave ₹4,000.

Another added, “My all time fav stand up comedian who always speak about real issues of my country. Proud of you man. My english is not that good otherwise i ll write minimum 5000 words about Kunal kamra and his real intentions towards my country. He is real gem.”

“I am speechless. Your humour, fearlessness is exemplary. Wish we all could be like you,” wrote a fan who donated ₹1,000.

One fan who donated ₹2,000 wrote, “Thanks for bringing the naked truth out which this country fails to acknowledge. I know you will be targeted but it takes guts to stand up to the bullies and look them right in the eye and tell the truth which is needed to come out.”

YouTube Super Thanks

YouTube’s Super Thanks policy enables Indian fans to donate between ₹40 and ₹10,000 to content creators. Channel owners need at least 500 subscribers to enable this feature.

Kunal Kamra has 2.4 million subscribers on YouTube.

The interest in “Kunal Kamra” was sky-high on Google India during March 24-25: