Indian stand-up comics are packing auditoriums, headlining international tours, and dominating streaming platforms, all while redefining what it means to be a comedian in this diverse landscape.
Appurv Gupta
Appurv Gupta credits affordable internet access since 2016 for popularising Indian stand-up globally, allowing audiences to discover comedy through YouTube. Having performed more than 3,000 shows, he notes that Indian comics primarily attract non-resident Indians (NRIs) and people of Indian origin (PIOs) abroad, bridging cultural gaps with humor that connects deeply with their roots.
Sahil Shah believes that stand-up comedy has become a cultural phenomenon in India, producing stars that are making people laugh across the world
Sahil recalls open mics as intimate gatherings before stand-up gained traction. His first international gig in Dubai highlighted NRIs’ desire to reconnect with their heritage. He observes that Indian comics thrive internationally by delivering culturally resonant performances, making audiences nostalgic for home.
Aakash Mehta
Mehta reflects on comedy's early struggles with poor infrastructure and irregular pay. He notes word-of-mouth as his primary audience driver, despite Instagram visibility. International tours, while costlier due to visas and logistics, remain economical compared to music tours due to fewer production requirements.
Prashasti Singh
Prashasti’s content primarily focuses on women’s independence, which resonates globally, especially with women aged 25-35. She emphasises comedy's role as a remedy for "brain drain," helping people recharge through humor, with her shows drawing strong connections from audiences at home and abroad.
Sumukhi Suresh, comic, writer and actor, is known from shows like Comicstaan, Go Straight Take Left and the Comedy Premier League
Sumukhi stresses the importance of unique content for audience loyalty. While short-form reels drive engagement, platforms like YouTube ensure better recall and ticket sales. She notes that male comics dominate international markets mainly because they have performed more, while women, including herself, are steadily gaining ground.
Siddharth Dudeja
Dudeja credits YouTube for transforming stand-up from a niche art to a mainstream medium, offering comedians visibility and accessibility. He notes that stand-up thrives as an affordable entertainment alternative to expensive cinema, appealing to audiences seeking relatable and engaging content.
Rishabh Nahar, Senior Vice President of Creator Management and Leadership at Only Much Louder, an independent network of businesses including artist management
Nahar outlines the challenges of international tours, such as visa issues and cultural relevance. Promoters analyze audience data and pricing sensitivity to tailor strategies effectively. A swift team and meticulous planning are crucial to overcoming logistical hurdles across countries, ensuring seamless execution for artists.
Also read: Rise of Indian stand-up comedy: How the country's comics are going global
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