I Am the Product of Many People’s Kindness, Says Vir Das

MUMBAI- International award-winning comedian Vir Das believes that Indian comedy has not yet achieved global reach, but as India’s cultural influence grows, it will. He hopes to be a part of that rise.

When asked if he thinks Indian comedy has reached a global platform, Vir said, “Not even close, not even close. I think you will see, as India becomes an undeniable global cultural power, that Indian comedy will reach massive heights — and I hope to be a small part of that.”

Vir, who has appeared in approximately 35 plays, over 100 stand-up shows, 18 films, eight TV shows, and six comedy specials, jokingly described his career as “a disaster.” He defines success in simple terms.

When asked about his career, he replied: “Quite a disaster, yes.”

When asked what success means to him now, with fans worldwide and numerous accolades, including an International Emmy Award, Vir said: “Free biscuits. I think if you’re able to show up anywhere in the world and there is a tray of biscuits waiting for you, I think that’s success you can maintain. Some days tickets will sell, some days tickets will not sell. But if biscuits are around, you’ll be alright.”

The 46-year-old comedian was honored with the Disruptor Award at the 16th edition of IFFM.

On whether he sees himself as a “disruptor,” he said: “Do I believe I’m a disruptor? I believe that I am the product of many people’s kindness, and that kindness has been disruptive.”

After beginning his career in stand-up comedy, Vir acted in Hindi films like ‘Badmaash Company’, ‘Delhi Belly’, and ‘Go Goa Gone’. In 2017, he performed the Netflix special ‘Abroad Understanding’. In 2019, he made his American television debut in the series ‘Whiskey Cavalier’. (IANS)