Indian comedian Parvinder Singh performed live in Guwahati for the first time on 6th May. The event, Comedy Smack, was organised at The Socialite, a city-based restaurant cum bar.
Parvinder Singh, one of the 5 finalists of The Great Indian Laughter Challenge 2017 has paved his way to success with his sheer wit and humour. He may not have won the title but he has won many hearts. Popularly called “Amritsar Ka Gabru” in the show, Parvinder is an engineer–turned–comedian, who can make people laugh effortlessly with his jokes.
The opening acts for the event, Comedy Smack, were performed by Krishnendu Paul and Darshan Soni.
The event was organised by the Fukra Factory, in collaboration with G Plus as Tabloid Partner, 92.7 Big FM Guwahati as radio partner and Being Axomiya as supporting partner and powered by Reyaz Hair Clinic.
G Plus had a chance to interview Parvinder Singh as he shared his journey with us. We present excerpts from the conversation with him.
- Firstly, can you tell us a little about yourself? When did the idea to become a stand-up comedian strike you and why?
To begin with, I am a small town boy from Amritsar, Punjab. It was only at the age of 17 that I actually stepped out of the house and went to Chandigarh. I studied engineering from Guru Nanak Dev University and worked for 6 years before becoming a full time comedian. I was Head of sales for a private company when I decided to quit and contribute to the artistic industry. I had an artistic knack ever since school and college days and participated in various theatre plays, comedy plays, etc.
- How did your parents react to your decision of quitting your job to become a comedian?
They freaked out when I first informed them of my decision. But when I went to them with my first cheque they were very impressed as the paycheques started adding a 0 or two in the right direction.
When my first show at the Great Indian Laughter Challenge was aired on TV, they were elated. Since my dad is a huge fan of Akshay Kumar, I even invited him to one of my shows to meet the actor. His happiness knew no bounds. He has been very supportive since then.
- Can you describe your journey so far?
I started doing stand-up comedy along with my job a few years back. But, to be a part of the Great Indian Laughter Challenge, one had to be a full time comedian. So I quit my job to follow my passion. The journey has been full of ups and downs ever since. I’ve been a part of the Delhi NRC comedy circuit and have performed at quite a few shows across different cities.
- What were the challenges and hurdles in the journey of becoming a professional stand-up comedian?
The biggest challenge for any comedian in India is income. Our only source of earning is ticket sales. But the truth is that people will only buy tickets to your show if you’re well established and famous.
- You’re a full time comedian who has been a theatre artist as well as an anchor. What are the other creative ventures you’re involved in?
I love reading and writing. One can always find a couple of books in my bag. I am currently writing a novel that deals with the hardships of life. Apart from that, there are two movie scripts in the pipeline. I also wish to take up acting as a profession in the near future.
- How would you describe the comedy scenario in India?
With the advent of social media and social media sites like YouTube and Netflix, comedy scenario in India is definitely on the rise. Earlier, people cracked jokes to pass their time, but now, stand up comedy has actually become an admirable profession.
When we were young, the only source of comedy consumption was through TV but we now have the internet where we can view comedy shows 24X7. It has opened up new horizons for artists.
Another trend prevalent here is that most of the comedians are highly qualified individuals and their jokes are about day-to-day life and their own experiences, which are very relatable to the youth.
- You performed in Guwahati for the first time. How was the experience here?
One word – Amazing.
When I was first contacted for the show, I was a little sceptical. There’s a Punjabi, rustic touch in my Hindi and I wasn’t sure if the Guwahati audience would understand my language. Also, since I was performing in a bar, I wasn’t sure if drunken people would be interested in my style of comedy, that is, story-telling.
But all my perceptions changed. The Guwahati audience is very open-minded and appreciative of the art. And I thoroughly enjoyed performing for them. When I made fun of people in the audience, they loved it and reciprocated really well. You don’t always get to see such great enthusiasm.
The organisers were also very supportive. They asked me about everything - starting from suitable flight timings to seating arrangements and the lighting at the venue. My comfort was given utmost priority.
I will definitely come back to perform in Guwahati very soon. The greenery, peace and atmosphere of Guwahati will be remembered.