Why Was Himanshu Jangra Fired After the ₹370 Biryani Controversy? Here’s the Full Story

What is the ₹370 Biryani Controversy?

What started as an audience interaction during comedian Pranit More‘s stand-up show has turned into one of the most talked-about internet controversies in India this week. During the show, Gurugram-based web developer Himanshu Jangra narrated a story about a date where he spent ₹370 on chicken biryani. He then suggested that because he had paid for the meal, he expected something in return from the woman. Many viewers interpreted the remark as implying entitlement to physical intimacy. Clips from the show quickly spread across social media platforms, triggering widespread criticism and accusations of misogyny.

Why Did People Criticise Himanshu Jangra’s Comments?

The backlash centred on the belief that paying for a meal does not create any obligation or entitlement from another person.

As the video gained traction online, thousands of users condemned the comments, arguing that they promoted unhealthy attitudes towards dating, consent and relationships.

The controversy soon expanded beyond the stand-up show itself, becoming part of a larger discussion around gender dynamics and accountability in public spaces.

Also Read: Pranit More Apologises After Viral Crowdwork Clip Sparks Debate On Misogyny In Comedy

Why Was Himanshu Jangra Fired by Starvik Design?

As outrage intensified, attention shifted to Jangra’s employer, Gurugram-based branding and social media company Starvik Design.

The company reportedly received a flood of messages, emails and calls demanding action against the employee. In response, founder Vivek Vishwakarma addressed the controversy through a video statement shared on Instagram.

According to Vishwakarma, the remarks did not align with the company’s values, and the growing controversy had begun affecting employees, clients and the overall workplace environment.

The company subsequently terminated Jangra’s employment.

What Did Starvik Design’s Founder Say About the Controversy?

While condemning the remarks, Vishwakarma also spoke about the possibility of personal growth and learning from mistakes.

He said he had consulted colleagues, including female employees, who described Jangra as professional and respectful within the workplace. Vishwakarma argued that while actions should have consequences, people should also have opportunities to reflect, apologise and change.

He further noted that Jangra is 22 years old and may continue to face the consequences of the incident for years to come.

Why Is Vivek Vishwakarma Facing Backlash?

The founder’s comments about redemption and second chances sparked a second wave of debate online.

Some social media users appreciated his attempt to balance accountability with compassion, arguing that individuals should be allowed to learn from their mistakes.

Others criticised the statement, claiming it softened the seriousness of the original remarks. Some questioned whether the company would have acted without public pressure, while others felt that discussions about growth and reflection shifted focus away from the nature of the comments themselves.

As a result, portions of the backlash began targeting Vishwakarma alongside Jangra.

What Happened After the Viral Video?

Following the controversy, Jangra issued an apology and deactivated his social media accounts.

However, the fallout continued to grow as discussions spread across social platforms, with users debating whether losing a job was an appropriate consequence for comments made outside the workplace.

The incident also reignited conversations about internet accountability, cancel culture, rehabilitation and the long-term impact of viral controversies.

What Does the ₹370 Biryani Row Say About Dating and Consent?

For many observers, the controversy was never really about the cost of a meal.

Instead, the debate focused on the idea that spending money on someone does not create expectations or obligations in return. The viral clip prompted discussions around consent, dating expectations and the importance of respecting personal boundaries.

As the controversy continues to generate reactions online, it has become a broader conversation about relationships, public accountability and how society responds when someone becomes the centre of an internet storm.

What Happens Next?

For Himanshu Jangra, the consequences have already been significant. The viral clip led to widespread criticism, an apology, the disappearance of his social media presence and ultimately the loss of his job.

For the wider public, the debate remains unresolved. Questions about accountability, forgiveness and second chances continue to divide opinion long after the original ₹370 biryani comment went viral.