Fri Dec 26 16:34:13 UTC 2025: News Article:
Comedian Sharon Verma Faces Backlash Over “Free Palestine” Joke
Stand-up comedian Sharon Verma, known for her appearances on “India’s Got Latent” and her comedic persona of a “weak independent girl,” is facing online criticism after a joke referencing “Free Palestine” during a recent live performance sparked controversy.
Video clips of the joke quickly circulated on social media platforms like X and Instagram. The joke stemmed from Verma reading a misogynistic comment from an online troll whose bio included “Free Palestine.” Verma sarcastically retorted that such individuals can’t even shine their own utensils but still want to see her in the kitchen. While the joke elicited laughter from the live audience, it ignited debate online.
Critics argue that the joke was insensitive and trivialized a serious geopolitical issue. Some users described it as “cruel performativity” and accused Verma of mocking genocide and mass suffering.
However, Verma’s supporters defended the joke, arguing that it was intended to highlight the hypocrisy of individuals who advocate for global causes while displaying discriminatory attitudes at home. Several users pointed out that Verma’s target was not the Palestinian cause or its people, but rather the contradiction in the commenter’s behavior.
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