Manoj Bajpayee addressed the backlash over jokes exchanged by Samay Raina and Sharon Verma about Bihar and Kashmir on India’s Got Latent. Saying he is not offended by harmless humour, Bajpayee stressed the importance of respecting others. BJP MLA Ram Kadam and Bihar Minister Mithilesh Tiwari criticised the exchange, while Raina is yet to respond publicly.

Comedians Samay Raina and Sharon Verma’s exchange on the latest episode of India's Got Latent Season 2 has sparked controversy, with their remarks drawing criticism over references to Bihar, Kashmir and the displacement of Kashmiri Pandits.

Manoj Bajpayee reacted to the controversy and while speaking to IANS about the exchange, in which the stand-up comedians mocked each other’s roots, Bajpayee said he was not bothered by such jokes as long as the intent was harmless. He emphasised that people should learn to laugh at themselves while also maintaining respect for others.

'I Actually Don't Mind It': Manoj Bajpayee Samay Raina's Bihari Jokes

“If it is all in jest, I actually don't mind it. We should learn to laugh at ourselves and laugh together, laugh at each other and still not be hurt and offended,” Bajpayee said.