On April 10, 2025, a resolution was passed during the national executive meeting of Sanskar Bharati held in Nashik on ‘Reinstating Bhartiya value consciousness in comic art forms is essential.’
Notably, in recent times, disregarding national and familial values, making fun of religion and caste, and using vulgar and abusive language have become increasingly common among stand-up comedians—often as a way to portray themselves as ‘cool’.
Highlighting the deep cultural roots of humour in Bharatiya civilisation, the resolution said, “Bharat’s theatrical tradition is one of the oldest and richest in the world, with its foundation laid in Bharatamuni’s Natyashastra. The Rasa Bhav theory described in this text is the soul of Bharatiya dramaturgy. This tradition is not only a mere means of entertainment but also a powerful tool for public education and mental engagement. Among the nine Rasas, Hasya Rasa (the emotion of humour) holds an important place. This tradition has been a carrier of social awareness, human behaviour, values, and cultural ethos. Be it the gentle humour of Sanskrit plays, the couplets of saints and poets, the satirical folk traditions like Theri Koothu, Tamasha, Jatra, Swang, Bhand, Nautanki and others or the satirical tone of contemporary literature all forms of humour have inspired self-reflection, dialogue, and reform among the masses”.
नासिक में संपन्न हुई संस्कार भारती की प्रबंधकारिणी बैठक में “हास्य विधाओं में भारतीय मूल्य बोध की पुनः स्थापना आवश्यक” इस विषय पर प्रस्ताव पारित हुआ।#SanskarBharati pic.twitter.com/HFtYSUQXYL
— Sanskar Bharati (@Sanskar_Bharati) April 16, 2025
The resolution also reflects on the state of modern-day stand-up comedy, noting that, “In the current context, stand-up comedy in its new form has emerged as a modern expression of this age-old tradition. Humour based content, especially on digital platforms, is rapidly attracting the youth. However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable decline in the quality of the content and presentation within this genre. While this medium can become a powerful tool for social reform, it is increasingly becoming a platform for vulgar language, religious, caste and gender insensitivity, and the disregard of national values in the race for “shortcut fame.”
Under the guise of freedom of expression, some artists knowingly or unknowingly resort to mocking religious symbols, making sarcastic critiques of national heroes, or ridiculing social customs to gain popularity. Numerous comedy segments rely solely on profanity, sexual innuendos, or communal comments to elicit laughter”, the resolution reads.
“This trend weakens the spirit of sensitivity, tolerance, and cultural respect among young viewers. The Prabandhkarini (National executive meeting) of Sanskar Bharati expresses deep concern over the declining standards of comedic arts such as stand-up comedy”, the resolution further reads.
The resolution passed by the national executive of Sanaskar Bharati outlines a clear course of action in response to these growing concerns. “The Prabandhkarini firmly believes that it is time to re-establish the true spirit of Bharatiya humour tradition in a modern context. Viewing humour as a sensitive, responsible, and dignified art form, efforts must be made for its artistic and ethical elevation.
Redirecting modern formats like stand-up comedy from vulgar, insensitive, and controversial content towards respectful, purposeful, and dialogue-driven expression based on Bharatiya cultural values would be a significant step in this direction. The Prabandhkarini considers it essential to encourage meaningful dialogue between artists and audiences for the balanced development of humour as an art form and is fully committed to initiatives and awareness efforts in this regard”.
The resolution also highlights the need for collective moral responsibility across all sections of society. “The Prabandhkarini calls for an united and responsible role from artists, audiences, government, and policymakers to protect the dignity, decorum, and purpose of humorous art forms. It urges artists and creators to uphold moral integrity, cultural consciousness, and social responsibility in their expressions. Audiences are requested to support quality, sensible, and dignified humour while actively opposing vulgar and insensitive performances”, the resolution further reads.
“At the same time, the government, policymakers, and cultural institutions are requested to provide training, platforms, and resources to guide the field of humour, and to ensure discipline and quality through appropriate legal provisions, guidelines, and regulatory frameworks. Artists and volunteers associated with Sanskar Bharati are called upon to play an active, sensitive, and inspirational role across the country so that the art of humour can evolve in alignment with Bharatiya values, dignity, and cultural objectives”, reads the resolution while emphasising the need for structural support and long-term vision.
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