**MNS Issues Warning to Kapil Sharma Over Use of “Bombay”**
The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has issued a warning to comedian Kapil Sharma regarding his use of the term “Bombay” in his Netflix show. MNS leader Ameya Khopkar shared a clip from the show on social media, highlighting that despite the city being officially renamed Mumbai nearly 30 years ago, the older name is still commonly used in entertainment and by public figures.
In the clip, which features sisters Shilpa and Shamita Shetty alongside actors Huma Qureshi and Saqib Saleem, Qureshi refers to Mumbai as “Bombay” while discussing her relationship with her brother, expressing that his presence comforts her as she is not originally from the city.
Khopkar emphasized that even after the official renaming by the Maharashtra Government in 1995 and the Central Government in 1996, the term “Bombay” continues to be prevalent among Bollywood celebrities, show hosts, and in various Hindi films. He urged Sharma and others to respect the official name and use “Mumbai” instead.
The MNS has a history of opposing the use of “Bombay,” advocating for the recognition of the city’s official name. The party has also made headlines for its moral policing, particularly concerning the Marathi language and the treatment of migrants. Recently, MNS workers assaulted a man for refusing to speak Marathi, and there have been other incidents involving confrontations over language use.
In a separate incident in Pune, former MNS corporator Kishore Shinde confronted Municipal Commissioner Navalkishore Ram, demanding that he communicate in Marathi rather than Hindi during a meeting.
As the debate over the city’s name continues, the MNS remains steadfast in its position, calling for respect for Mumbai’s official designation.
**FAQ**
**Q: Why does the MNS object to the use of “Bombay”?**
A: The MNS insists on using “Mumbai” as the city’s official name, which was adopted nearly 30 years ago, and seeks to promote respect for this designation in public discourse and media.