Sitcoms with standup comedians

Stand up comedians are gaining significance this side of the globe too! Earlier the phenomenon was a hit only in the US, but with the rage catching up with Indian audiences, there is no dearth for laughter here as well. Throw in the Indian-English accent and harp a bit on cultural and regional differences and spice it up with office innuendos, the comedian has an eclectic mix of humour that lights up comedy houses. The new crop of comedians are no jokers either. They are all wit, intellect, suave and charm in a good dose. Where humour is concerned, Indian comedians aren’t that dumb or belong to the Neolithic age. They can set one off in giggles anytime -- day, noon or night. 

Of course, the best part is you needn’t attend a show or an event to watch them live. Simply sink into your favorite chair and catch them on ‘youtube’ as almost all shows feature here. The glitch-free entertainment of the new-age era. 

Actually, one of the pioneers who held the beacon of light for other comedians to follow suit was Vipul Goyal, the IITian, whose performance kindled the wrath of parents and ignited rave reviews of students. His take on dads and moms and how they victimize the kids with their typical Indian mentalities is something that’s food for thought and laughter to bones. What perhaps gives him an edge is his dialogue delivery and unmasked expressions, striking up a distinct chord with the audiences!  Taking the laughter business a few notches up he even launched his own comedy promotion company called ‘Humourously yours’. 

Kenny Sebastian is another young lad who knows how to bring the house down. The dialogues which are often laced with heavy humour come out rolling confidently. Sarcasm and subtlety of presentation makes you want more of him. While his funny take on diverse themes is hilarious enough to make you roll on the floor laughing, his delivery of jokes with deadpan expression will remain etched in your mind. No wonder he remains a hot favourite among young crowds. 

If you think only the north Indians guys are good at humour. You got it absolutely wrong! Manoj Menon, whose standup comedy is doing rounds on internet, knows how to connect with you in a matter of 0.03 seconds. The funny part is  (pun unintended) is that these comedians get to the heart of the matter as they speak the language of youngsters. In other sense, Jokes on WhatsApp, Facebook, Linkedin, Flight cancellations and desi incidents and slangs! “Gone are the ant and elephant jokes. Dead and buried. If you are still spreading these jokes you are an oldie” cries Manoj. Whose jokes on Whatsapp are sure to crack you up! 

Praveen Kumar is another popular face on the youtube who knows how to pulls one’s leg, including his own sometimes. When he jokes about his performance of Bhartanatyam with his big wiggly stomach shaking, you just can’t hold your laughter in. Add to the whole narration a heavy Indian accent and typical Indian incidents that go awry, you are sure to have your ribs tickled. The funniest line on his personal website goes like this “His love for comedy is so much he decided to get married”. 

Finally, the Indian standup comedians are getting a chance to stand in the spotlight, grabbing their fare share of fame and money (I seriously doubt this part). The audiences are ever eager awaiting in cafes, pubs, dance bars (Non-existent? I doubt) or whatever to relish these silver tongued comedians' performances. With the number of performers shooting up, I am sure comedy is taking its wings and going places on the Indian horizon.