Mumbai’s Habitat Studio, a popular performance and event venue, announced on Monday, March 24, that it is shutting down indefinitely after its premises were vandalised by Shiv Sena workers. The attack followed stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra’s alleged defamatory remarks against Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde during a show.

In a statement shared on Instagram, the studio expressed its distress over the incident. “We are shocked, worried, and extremely broken by the recent acts of vandalism targeting us,” the post read. Emphasising that artists are “solely responsible for their views and creative choices,” the studio clarified that it has never been involved in curating or endorsing the content performed on its stage.

However, it acknowledged that the repeated targeting of the venue has forced it to reconsider its operations. “Recent events have made us rethink how we get blamed and targeted every time, almost as if we are a proxy for the performer,” the statement added.

The studio announced its temporary closure, stating that it would reassess how to support free expression without endangering its staff and property. “We invite all artists, audiences, and stakeholders to discuss and share their views. We seek guidance on how to ensure performers’ rights are respected while also protecting ourselves,” the statement concluded.

Earlier on Monday, the studio had issued an apology to “all those hurt by this video,” distancing itself from Kamra’s remarks. “The Habitat is not involved in the making of the recent video of Kunal Kamra and does not endorse the views expressed in it,” the post read.

The vandalism took place on Sunday night when a large group of Shiv Sena workers gathered outside Hotel Unicontinental in Khar, where the studio is located. Mumbai Police stated that the group allegedly ransacked the studio and the hotel premises.

Following the incident, the police registered an FIR against Kamra for his remarks against Shinde. Additionally, nearly 40 Shiv Sena workers have been booked for vandalising the venue and the hotel.

The attack has sparked strong reactions, with some defending Kamra and condemning the vandalism. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut took a swipe at the rival faction, calling Kamra’s remarks “Kunal Ka Kamal.” Stand-up comic and lyricist Varun Grover also criticised the attack, sharing footage of the vandalism on X with a sarcastic reference to government initiatives: “Skill India. Make in India. Ease of doing business. Mother of Democracy.” Lawyer-activist Prashant Bhushan echoed the sentiment, posting the video with the caption: “Shinde Shiv Sena showing Modi how they face criticism—even in jest!”

The incident follows a similar controversy last month when the studio hosted the stand-up show India’s Got Latent, which also drew massive backlash.