Stand Up Comedians List India

HIGHLIGHTS

• This article covers popular and emerging stand-up comedians as well as comedians who have made a mark in TV and films.
• The Indian stand-up comedy industry is booming and is expected to reach ₹11.8 billion by 2 (source: [report on the growth of the Indian stand-up comedy market]).
• This stand up comedians list India features a diverse range of comedians, from veterans like Vir Das to new talents like Rahul Dua.

India’s stand-up comedy scene has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a vibrant and influential sector of the entertainment industry. Over the past decade, it has seen an explosion of talent, with comedians gaining fame through live performances, television, YouTube, and streaming platforms. Stand-up comedy in India covers a wide range of topics, from everyday life and cultural nuances to politics and social issues, often delivered with a unique blend of humor and relatability. 

This article explores the dynamic landscape of Indian comedy, showcasing established stars and new faces alike. Whether you’re familiar with the scene or just getting started, this article i.e focused on stand up comedians list  will introduce you to some of the brightest and most talented comedians in India today.

Stand-Up Comedians in India

Popular Stand-Up Comedians

Anubhav Singh Bassi

• Famous For: Relatable storytelling and anecdotes about his life experiences.
• Started: Began performing in 2017.
• How They Started: Transitioned from being a lawyer to stand-up comedy.
• Current Status: One of the most popular comedians in India, with sold-out shows and millions of YouTube views.

Anubhav Singh Bassi is a standout name in the Indian stand-up comedy scene. Starting his career in 2017, Bassi quickly gained popularity for his observational humor and relatable content. With over 4 million YouTube subscribers and more than 3 million Instagram followers (as of July 2024), he has built a strong online presence. Known for finding comedy in everyday experiences, his YouTube videos have racked up over 200 million views. Bassi is celebrated for his fresh and engaging approach to comedy, making him one of the most exciting talents in the industry today.

Zakir Khan

• Famous For: “Sakht Launda” persona and insightful humor about Indian society.
• Started: Gained prominence after winning Comedy Central India’s Best Stand-Up Comedian competition in 2012.
• How They Started: Worked as a writer before moving to stand-up comedy.
• Current Status: Regularly performs across India and has multiple successful specials on Amazon Prime Video.

Zakir Khan is one of India’s most popular stand-up comedians, known for his “Sakht Launda” persona. Rising to fame in 2012 with Comedy Central India’s Best Stand-Up Comedian competition, Zakir has since built a huge following with over 2.5 million YouTube subscribers and 2 million Instagram followers (as of July 2024). His humor explores relationships and societal norms with a distinctive style. With millions of video views and sold-out shows, Zakir continues to be a major force in Indian comedy.

Rahul Subramanian

• Famous For: Observational comedy and corporate humor.
• Started: He began his comedy career in 2014.
• How They Started: Left his job in marketing to pursue stand-up comedy.
• Current Status: Known for his stand-up specials and popular YouTube channel.

Rahul Subramanian has made a name for himself in Indian stand-up comedy with his sharp observational humor. Since beginning his career in 2014, Rahul has captivated audiences with his witty takes on everyday life. With over 1.5 million YouTube subscribers and a growing Instagram following (as of July 2024), he’s become a prominent figure in the comedy scene. His popular YouTube content and live performances reflect his unique comedic style.

Aiyyo Shraddha (Shraddha Jain)

• Famous For: Hilarious takes on everyday life and South Indian culture.
• Started: Became well-known through her social media videos in 2019.
• How They Started: Used social media platforms to share her comedic sketches.
• Current Status: Continues to create viral content and performs stand-up.

Aiyyo Shraddha, also known as Shraddha Jain, is a rising star in the Indian stand-up comedy world. She gained popularity in 2019 with her hilarious takes on South Indian culture and everyday life. With over 1 million YouTube subscribers and a growing Instagram following (as of July 2024), Shraddha uses her comedy to connect with audiences through relatable and engaging content.

Atul Khatri

• Famous For: Witty humor and corporate gigs.
• Started: Entered the comedy scene in 2012.
• How They Started: Transitioned from a successful business career to comedy.
• Current Status: A veteran in the Indian stand-up scene, performing globally.

Atul Khatri is a veteran in the Indian stand-up comedy scene, known for his sharp wit and engaging humor. Starting his comedy career in 2012, Atul has gained a strong following with over 500k YouTube subscribers and a notable Instagram presence (as of July 2024). His comedy often explores everyday experiences and corporate life, making him a respected figure in the industry.

Amit Tandon

• Famous For: Family-related jokes and “Married Guy” persona.
• Started: Started performing in 2010.
• How They Started: Began performing at open mics and quickly gained popularity.
• Current Status: Performs internationally and has multiple specials.

Amit Tandon, also known as the “Married Guy,” is a prominent stand-up comedian recognized for his family-oriented humor. Beginning his comedy career in 2010, Amit has built a significant following with over 700k YouTube subscribers and an active Instagram account (as of July 2024). His comedy often revolves around marriage, parenting, and family life, resonating with a wide audience.

Abhishek Upmanyu

• Famous For: Quick wit and unique perspective on life.
• Started: Began his comedy career in 2013.
• How They Started: Initially worked as a writer before moving to stand-up.
• Current Status: Known for his sold-out shows and YouTube videos.

Abhishek Upmanyu has become a notable name in Indian stand-up comedy with his quick wit and sharp observations. Starting his career in 2013, he has since attracted a large following with over 2 million YouTube subscribers and a growing Instagram presence (as of July 2024). His comedy often explores everyday life and personal experiences, making him a fresh and engaging voice in the comedy world.

Sumukhi Suresh

• Famous For: Versatile comedic roles and stand-up specials.
• Started: Gained recognition in 2014.
• How They Started: Started with improv and sketch comedy.
• Current Status: Continues to perform stand-up and acts in web series.

Sumukhi Suresh is a versatile comedian known for her work in both stand-up and sketch comedy. Since gaining prominence in 2014, Sumukhi has captivated audiences with her varied comedic roles and engaging performances. With a strong social media presence, including over 1 million YouTube subscribers and a significant Instagram following (as of July 2024), she continues to be a major player in the Indian comedy scene.

Papa CJ

• Famous For: International appeal and sharp humor.
• Started: Entered the comedy scene in 2004.
• How They Started: Trained at the London School of Comedy.
• Current Status: Performs globally and is a motivational speaker.

Papa CJ is a well-known stand-up comedian with a global presence. Entering the comedy scene in 2004, Papa CJ has gained international acclaim with over 300k YouTube subscribers and a notable Instagram following (as of July 2024). His comedy, marked by sharp wit and insightful observations, has earned him a reputation as one of India’s leading comedy exports.

Vir Das

• Famous For: Multiple Netflix specials and international tours.
• Started: Began performing in 2003.
• How They Started: Studied at Knox College and the Moscow Arts Theatre.
• Current Status: A well-known comedian and actor, performing worldwide.

Vir Das is a major figure in Indian stand-up comedy, known for his international success and Netflix specials. Starting his career in 2003, Vir has built a substantial following with over 1.5 million YouTube subscribers and around 1 million Instagram followers (as of July 2024). His comedy often blends global perspectives with Indian cultural insights, making him a prominent voice in the comedy world.

Biswa Kalyan Rath

• Famous For: Sharp Observations and “Pretentious Movie Reviews.”
• Started: Rose to fame in 2014.
• How They Started: Started with the YouTube series “Pretentious Movie Reviews.”
• Current Status: Continues to perform stand-up and create content.

Biswa Kalyan Rath is a popular comedian known for his sharp humor and “Pretentious Movie Reviews” series. Gaining fame in 2014, Biswa has amassed over 1 million YouTube subscribers and a growing Instagram following (as of July 2024). His comedy is characterized by clever observations and a unique perspective on cinema and life.

Aakash Gupta

• Famous For: Winning Comicstaan and energetic performances.
• Started: Began performing in 2016.
• How They Started: Gained prominence after winning Comic Staan in 2019.
• Current Status: Popular on YouTube and performs regularly.

Aakash Gupta rose to fame as the winner of Comicstaan in 2019. Since starting his comedy career in 2016, he has quickly become a popular figure in the Indian comedy scene, with over 800k YouTube subscribers and a notable Instagram presence (as of July 2024). Aakash is known for his energetic performances and engaging humor.

Kanan Gill

• Famous For: “Pretentious Movie Reviews” and stand-up specials.
• Started: Became well-known in 2014.
• How They Started: Gained fame through the YouTube series with Biswa Kalyan Rath.
• Current Status: Performs internationally and has a popular stand-up special on Amazon Prime Video.

Kanan Gill is a well-known comedian recognized for his work on “Pretentious Movie Reviews” alongside Biswa Kalyan Rath. Gaining prominence in 2014, Kanan has built a significant following with over 1.2 million YouTube subscribers and a growing Instagram account (as of July 2024). His comedy blends observational humor with sharp wit.

Vipul Goyal

• Famous For: Relatable humor and the web series “Humorously Yours.”
• Started: Began his comedy career in 2012.
• How They Started: Initially performed at open mics before gaining a wider audience.
• Current Status: Continues to perform stand-up and act in web series.

Vipul Goyal is a popular stand-up comedian known for his humorous storytelling and relatable jokes. Starting his career in 2012, Vipul has attracted a large following with over 600k YouTube subscribers and an active Instagram presence (as of July 2024). His comedy often focuses on everyday experiences and societal observations.

Rahul Dua

• Famous For: Relatable jokes and quick humor.
• Started: Rose to fame after Comicstaan in 2018.
• How They Started: Gained recognition as a finalist on Comicstaan.
• Current Status: Popular on YouTube and performs at comedy clubs and festivals.

Rahul Dua gained popularity as a finalist on Comicstaan in 2018. Beginning his stand-up career in 2015, Rahul has since grown his audience with over 500k YouTube subscribers and a notable Instagram following (as of July 2024). His comedy is known for its relatable humor and quick wit.

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Indian Comedians in TV and Films

Kapil Sharma

• Famous For: “The Kapil Sharma Show” and his influence on Indian television comedy.
• Started: Gained fame after winning “The Great Indian Laughter Challenge” in 2007.
• How They Started: Participated in various comedy competitions before landing his own show.
• Current Status: Continues to host “The Kapil Sharma Show,” a top-rated comedy program in India.

Kapil Sharma is a major force in Indian television comedy, best known for his popular show, The Kapil Sharma Show. He first gained prominence by winning The Great Indian Laughter Challenge in 2007 and has since become a household name. With a knack for blending humor with celebrity interviews and skits, Kapil continues to entertain millions through his show and live performances, solidifying his status as one of India’s most influential comedians.

Bharti Singh

• Famous For: Her comedic timing and characters on various TV shows.
• Started: Rose to fame after participating in “The Great Indian Laughter Challenge” in 2008.
• How They Started: Started with stand-up comedy and then moved to television.
• Current Status: Regularly appears on comedy and reality TV shows.

Bharti Singh is celebrated for her sharp comedic timing and memorable characters on Indian TV. She first came into the limelight with The Great Indian Laughter Challenge in 2008 and has since carved out a successful career in television comedy and reality shows. Known for her versatility and engaging presence, Bharti remains a prominent figure in the Indian entertainment industry.

Sunil Grover

• Famous For: Characters Gutthi and Dr. Mashoor Gulati on “Comedy Nights with Kapil.”
• Started: Gained recognition through his radio shows and then TV.
• How They Started: Began with radio comedy and gradually moved to television.
• Current Status: Acts in films and web series, along with occasional TV appearances.

Sunil Grover is renowned for his iconic roles on Comedy Nights with Kapil, including Gutthi and Dr. Mashoor Gulati. Starting his career in radio comedy, Sunil transitioned to television where he gained widespread recognition. Today, he continues to impress audiences with his acting in films and web series while occasionally appearing on TV, showcasing his enduring talent.

Sugandha Mishra

• Famous For: Mimicry and singing talent, often seen on comedy shows.
• Started: Became well-known through “The Great Indian Laughter Challenge” in 2008.
• How They Started: Started with singing and mimicry before transitioning to comedy.
• Current Status: Regularly appears on TV shows and performs live.

Sugandha Mishra has made a name for herself with her mimicry skills and comedic performances. Rising to fame through The Great Indian Laughter Challenge in 2008, she has since been a regular on TV comedy shows and live performances. Known for her versatile talent, Sugandha blends mimicry with comedy, continuing to engage and entertain her audiences.

Jeeveshu Ahluwalia

• Famous For: Witty one-liners and appearances on comedy shows.
• Started: Entered the comedy scene in 2013.
• How They Started: Transitioned from a corporate job to stand-up comedy.
• Current Status: Continues to perform at comedy clubs and festivals.

Jeeveshu Ahluwalia is known for his witty one-liners and engaging stand-up performances. He entered the comedy scene in 2013 after transitioning from a corporate career. With his sharp observational humor, Jeeveshu has built a strong presence in the comedy scene through his live shows and festival appearances.

Conclusion

Indian comedy boasts a diverse range of talents, from stand-up comedians to those who shine in TV and films. Each comedian brings a unique style and perspective, contributing significantly to the entertainment industry. We hope you found this article standup comedian list india helpful.

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FAQs

Who are the top stand-up comedians in India right now?

Some of the top stand-up comedians in India include Anubhav Singh Bassi, Zakir Khan, Rahul Subramanian, Aiyyo Shraddha (Shraddha Jain), and Vir Das. These comedians are known for their unique styles, engaging performances, and strong online presence. 

When did stand-up comedy become popular in India?

Stand-up comedy began gaining popularity in India around the early 2000s. The genre saw significant growth in the 2010s, with the rise of social media and online platforms allowing comedians to reach wider audiences. Today, stand-up comedy is a thriving and influential part of the Indian entertainment industry.

What are some popular comedy shows on Indian TV?

Popular comedy shows on Indian TV include The Kapil Sharma Show, Comedy Nights with Kapil, and The Great Indian Laughter Challenge. These shows feature a mix of stand-up comedy, sketches, and celebrity interviews, showcasing some of the best talents in Indian comedy.

How can I become a stand-up comedian in India?

To become a stand-up comedian in India, start by performing at open mic events and comedy clubs. Building an online presence through social media and creating content for YouTube or other platforms can also help you reach a wider audience. Networking with other comedians and participating in comedy competitions can further boost your career.

Where can I watch Indian stand-up comedy performances?

You can watch Indian stand-up comedy performances on platforms like YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and various comedy clubs across India. Many comedians also perform live shows and tours, which can be found on their social media pages or event listing sites.