BookMyShow Responds to Kunal Kamra's Open Letter Over Delisting Controversy

Online ticketing platform BookMyShow has issued a response following comedian Kunal Kamra’s open letter that he posted on social media. Kamra’s request came after reports suggested that his shows were being removed, sparking a wider debate on the platform's role in content moderation.

In its statement, BookMyShow defended its position, clarifying that it is merely a "platform to facilitate the sale of tickets" and emphasising that decisions regarding the listing or delisting of shows are made by the event organisers or venues themselves. The platform asserted that the claims surrounding their involvement in the issue were "misrepresented" in the public domain.

"Facts on our role have been misrepresented," BookMyShow stated. "Our role is to provide a platform for ticket sales of live shows and it is the decision of the organiser or the venue to list or delist their shows."

The company further explained that the content of any performance rests solely with the performer or organiser, adding that the views expressed during shows do not reflect the platform’s own stance. "We do not restrict any artist from selling their show on our website, should they choose to do so," the statement continued. "Our platform is about bringing people together through shared experiences regardless of their beliefs."

Kunal Kamra had earlier taken to X to express his concerns directly to BookMyShow. He wrote: "Dear @bookmyshow- I still don't know if I have your platform or no. Below is humble view - To the audiences I'm not a fan of boycotts or down rating a private business... BookMyShow is well within their right to do what's best for their business."

Kamra's comments came after allegations that his shows had been removed from the platform following controversy surrounding his performance. The issue stems from a parody Kamra performed of the popular Bollywood song Bholi Si Surat, which he allegedly used to mock Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. This led to multiple FIRs being filed against the comedian and protests by the Shiv Sena youth wing, Yuva Sena, which reportedly vandalised the venue where the show was recorded.

In his post on X, Kamra made it clear that his grievance was not about BookMyShow's right to delist him but rather about their exclusive control over listing shows. He said, "The issue at hand isn't about whether you can or will delist me -- it's about your exclusive right on listing our shows. By not allowing artists to list their shows through their own websites, you've effectively prevented me from accessing the audience I've performed for from 2017 to 2025."

Kunal Kamra also acknowledged the platform’s need to maintain good relations with the state, given Mumbai’s significance as a hub for live entertainment, but expressed frustration over the restrictions placed on artists. "I understand that you need to maintain a cordial relationship with the state, and I know that Mumbai is a major hub for live entertainment. Without the state's cooperation, iconic shows like Coldplay and Guns N' Roses wouldn't be possible," he added.

The comedian urged BookMyShow to reconsider their stance, writing, "Do not delist me, or provide me with the data (contact information) I've generated through your platform from my audience."