Comedian Daniel Fernandes has been accused of belittling Jainism in a viral video from his show
Know everything about Daniel Fernandes’ controversy as the Indian comedian known for his political wit and satirical humor, has sparked discussions online with a video titled “Jains Buy Goats,” that he uploaded on his YouTube channel.
For the unversed, the video, which quickly went viral, received significant backlash for its jokes involving religious sentiments, particularly those concerning the Jain and Muslim communities.
Comedian Daniel Fernandes accused of mocking Jainism in viral video joking about Jains buying goats during Eid
Many viewers accused Fernandes of creating discord between the two communities. In response, Fernandes posted a four-slide explanation on Instagram.
What Did Daniel Fernandes Say?
Fernandes announced that he would be taking down the video and apologizing to the respective communities for any hurt caused.
He acknowledged the uproar caused by his reference to Jains being involved in the meat business.
Comedian Vs Polititian
Daniel Fernandes comic take on Jains run into controversy. #Telangana BJP MLA T Raja warns the comedian to cancel his upcoming show in #Hyderabad Banjara Hills, if not face dire consequences!
Did Daniel cross the line? pic.twitter.com/8IxrGfcRYC
— Nabila Jamal (@nabilajamal_) June 29, 2024
He explained that while the video might offend some due to the Jain community’s strict vegetarian beliefs, it is challenging to categorically state that no Jain has ever been involved in such industries.
He compared this assertion to the implausibility of claiming no priest has ever been involved in misconduct.
Fernandes emphasized that his jokes target the exceptions rather than the norms and are not intended to offend those who do not fit the stereotype.
He addressed the criticism by asking, “So if your religious sentiments are hurt because of my jokes, is it fair to then say that Muslim religious sentiments are also hurt because of your act?”
He also referred to an instance where the Prime Minister of India mentioned his Jain friends’ involvement in the meat industry and an article by Dr. Sulekh Chand Jain.
Fernandes Express Decision to Remove the Video
Fernandes expressed his decision to remove the controversial video and replace it with a version devoid of the offending joke.
“I will take down the video in question and replace it with a version that does not have the joke that offended you,” he said.
BIZARRE!
After outrage and legal threats, Comedian Daniel Fernandes has said that he will delete this standup comedy video he made on Jains from Delhi who dressed up as Muslims to buy goats for virtue signalling on Eid. Please don't share this video. pic.twitter.com/TEIsB1oBXK
— Waseem ವಸೀಮ್ وسیم (@WazBLR) June 27, 2024
He reiterated that his primary intent is to provoke thought and laughter, not to incite hatred or division.
He concluded his post by reiterating his lack of ill will and his hope for unity among diverse communities, reminding everyone that humor is his way of understanding the world, and he wishes everyone good fortune.
He ended with, “Let us stay united! Jai Hind.” The video has since been taken down by Fernandes.
Social Media User’s Reaction
After the video went viral, social media user’s have been trolling the content creator as they are showing their anger and frustration towards him.
One such angered user took to X and wrote, “For him, there are better ways to earn money like begging in the streets.” Another one added, “He will say anything & post an apology. What a cycle.”
Did Fernandes Cancel His Show?
Amidst the controversy, Fernandes has cancelled his show in Hyderabad.
Comedian Daniel Fernandes cancels his show in Hyderabad amid safety concerns!
"Nobody ready to guarantee safety of my audience, crew & myself"
Sad the #Hyderabad police decided NOT to intervene https://t.co/eTQsCwPg5R pic.twitter.com/T7R8xcE5Eb
— Nabila Jamal (@nabilajamal_) June 30, 2024
Daniel took to his Instagram and announced the same as he said “we have to reschedule tonight’s show in Hyderabad because of the unrest caused by my last video.”