Comedian Madhur Virli apologizes after old clip with ‘Cuddle nahi karoge kya iske baad?’ remarks sparks debate

A stand-up comedy clip recorded nearly two years ago is back in the spotlight, and this time, it's drawing criticism instead of laughter.In recent days, social media users have been sharing an old stand-up video of comedian Madhur Virli and questioning remarks made during the performance.

The clip, which includes references to rape and murder, has sparked a wider debate about the limits of humour and the treatment of sensitive subjects in comedy.As the conversation grew online, Virli issued a public apology, saying he realized shortly after the performance that the joke was inappropriate and had taken down the video years before it resurfaced.

Madhur Virli apologizes over resurfaced stand-up clip

In a statement posted on his YouTube channel, Virli said the video currently being shared online was recorded around two years ago.Explaining his position, he wrote: “I do believe comedy can question ideas and engage with difficult subjects. But certain topics require sensitivity, context, and informed discretion. When an attempt falls short, the only honest thing to do is acknowledge it, apologize, and do better.”

Addressing speculation online, he added that his Instagram account had been deactivated around six months ago and that the decision was unrelated to the current controversy.

What was said in the viral video?

The criticism centers on a segment of Virli's stand-up set in which he discussed rape cases.During the routine, he described a hypothetical situation involving rape and murder while attempting to portray what he characterized as the mindset of an accused person.

The disgusting line that has attracted the most attention reads: “Mujhe lagta hai voh ek case tab hota hoga jab just after rape, ladka uthta hoga aur bandi bolti hogi, ‘Arey, cuddle nahi karoge kya iske baad?’”Roughly translated, the line means: “I think that particular murder case must happen when, just after the rape, the man gets up, and the woman says to him, ‘What, won't you cuddle me after this?’”

Why is the clip being discussed now?

The resurfacing of Virli's old performance comes at a time when conversations around comedy and audience boundaries are already active online.The broader discussion gained momentum following criticism directed at comedian Pranit More's show after participant Himanshu Jangra made remarks about expecting “more” from a woman following their Rs 370 biryani date.More later apologized, saying he should have stepped in earlier and spoken out against the comments made during the crowdwork segment.Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available videos, social media posts, and statements shared by the individuals involved. The Times of India has reported the developments based on information available at the time of publication.Thumb image: Instagram