SINGAPORE, Dec 13: A couple of Indian-origin comedians from Singapore are eager to reconnect with their cultural roots by performing in India and tapping into the country’s vast stand-up comedy scene.
Rishi Budhrani and Sharul Channa are gearing up for performances in Bengaluru and Chennai this weekend.
“We need to venture abroad, particularly to India, which presents a significant opportunity for growth,” remarked Rishi, who enjoys a solid following in Southeast Asia but is keen to broaden his reach for lasting success.
Rishi, 40, and Sharul, 37, wowed audiences in Cape Town with their performances a few months back, and they are confident they can make a similarly strong impression in India this month.
Born in Singapore, Rishi’s parents emigrated from Mumbai and Jaipur during the 1960s and 1970s. He has previously graced stages in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, and Gurugram, and this time he is particularly enthusiastic about his upcoming show in Chennai.
“In the north, Hindi-speaking comedians tend to dominate the scene, making it challenging to compete. However, in the south, English comedy is more embraced. So I feel well-prepared,” he shared with Singapore’s Indian community through the Friday weekly, Tabla!, a tabloid that covers news related to India and its entertainment industry.
“Having been raised in Singapore, I sometimes felt disconnected in India,” he confessed. “Now, I aim to rediscover my roots with a new perspective, focusing on Indian heritage and the bonds that unite us.”
Rishi has been entertaining audiences in India since 2018 and is “super excited” to undertake a “double headliner” performance there for the very first time.
Sharul will also present solo shows in Bengaluru and Mumbai.
“The Indian comedy scene is rapidly evolving. With broader reach and greater financial prospects, I aspire to establish a strong presence there alongside Rishi,” said Sharul. (PTI)
