Global Talent Directory

Comedians from India

The comedian directory for India: profiles, bios, photos and social links.

29 comedians

Amit Tandon

Amit Tandon is an Indian singer, musician, and television actor. He first gained public attention in 2004 as a participant in the inaugural season of Indian Idol. Reaching the final round, he was eliminated on December 31, 2004, but his involvement extended beyond that point. Tandon contributed vocals to both the Indian Idol 1 album and a subsequent album, Yaaron, which featured all the finalists. Prior to appearing on Indian Idol, he came to India specifically to participate in this reality television show. His early career demonstrates a foundation in musical performance and a growing presence within the Indian entertainment industry. Following his appearance on Indian Idol, Tandon transitioned into acting roles on television. He initially played Prithvi Bose in Kaisa Ye Pyar Hai, eventually evolving into an antagonist. He then portrayed Manthan in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi until November 6, 2008. His acting credits also include roles as Abhay Singh in Saath Saath Banayenge Ek Aashiyaan and Dr. Abhimanyu Modi in Dill Mill Gayye, with the latter considered his most impactful role. He was Jimmy/Rahul in Jeannie Aur Juju. He was Subbu Chandran in Yeh Hai Mohabbatein. He was Abhishek Khurana in Kasam Tere Pyaar Ki. Tandon’s work on television demonstrates his versatility as an actor. Beyond acting, Amit Tandon continues to pursue musical endeavors and hosting opportunities. He has also participated in other reality shows, including Jo Jeeta Wohi Superstar and Zara Nachke Dikha, and performed at the Indian Telly Awards in 2009 alongside Sara Khan. Since January 15, 2011, he has hosted Dadagiri Season 4 on UTV Bindass. He also appeared in an episode of Laughter Ke Fatke. Amit Tandon’s ongoing involvement in various aspects of entertainment reflects a sustained and multifaceted career.

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Bharti Singh

Hailing from Punjab, India, Bharti Singh is an Indian television personality who works as a comedian, actress, and host. Born on July 3, 1984, in Amritsar, she experienced the loss of her father at a young age. Having been raised alongside a brother and a sister, Bharti Singh earned her graduate degree from BBK DAV College for Women in Amritsar. Bharti’s career began to gain prominence in 2000 when she secured the second runner-up position in The Great Indian Laughter Challenge. During this competition, her portrayal of the character 'Lalli' garnered significant critical acclaim, establishing her as a rising comedic talent. Throughout the 2010s, Bharti Singh continued to build her presence on Indian television. She participated in several comedy series including Comedy Circus Superstarz, Comedy Circus Ka Jaadu, Jublee Comedy Circus, Comedy Circus Tansen, and Comedy Circus Ka Naya Daur. She also appeared in the TV series 'Pyaar Mein Twist' in 2011 and co-hosted Comedy Nights Bachao with Krishna Abhishek. Her versatility extended to hosting duties, as demonstrated by her role in Sau Saal Cinema Ke alongside Karan Tacker, Ragini Khanna and Shruti Ulfat in 2012. Bharti Singh's success has been recognized nationally; she has been included in Forbes India’s Celebrity 100 list since 2016. She married Haarsh Limbachiyaa on December 3, 2017. In November 2020, Bharti and Haarsh Limbachiyaa were arrested after cannabis was found at their residence; 86.5 grams were seized by the Narcotics Control Bureau. Beyond her comedic work, she has a background as a national-level player in pistol shooting and archery. She and Haarsh Limbachiyaa have expanded their family with two children, Laksh born in April 2022, and Yashveer born in December 2023. Bharti Singh continues to perform stand-up acts and remains a prominent figure in Indian entertainment.

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Binnu Dhillon

Binnu Dhillon, born August 29, 1975, in Patiala, Punjab, India, is an Indian actor recognized for his roles in both Punjabi and Hindi films. He resides in Patiala and considers Kasouli his favorite tourist destination. As an entertainer, he is considered one of the most well-known comedians in Punjabi cinema. Dhillon’s childhood was marked by a passion for acting and a reputation for pranks. Dhillon’s career began with Bhangra performances, including appearances at Indian Festivals in Germany and the UK. Before entering acting, he participated in television serials, debuting with Parchhawain in 1998. He subsequently appeared in several popular television serials such as Sarhad , Lori , Gaoundi Dharti , Sirnaave , Man Jeetey Jag Jeet , Channo Chan Vargi , Professor Money Plant , Jugnu Hazir Hai , Jugnu Mast Mast , Padam Paria , Kankaal , Aaste and Pagdandian , as well as telefilms like Khara Dudh and Khich Ghuggi Khich . He attended Guru Teg Bahadur Public School and earned a post-graduate degree in theatre and television from Punjabi University, Patiala. Dhillon’s film career started with small roles in Hindi films Shaheed-E-Azam and Dev D , before transitioning from villain roles to comedic villainy and eventually becoming a full-time comedian. He is known for his appearances in notable Punjabi comedy films including Carry On Jatta , Sirphire , Raula Pai Gaya , Tu Mera 22 Main Tera 22 , Lucky Di Unlucky Story , Rangeelay and Vekh Baraatan Challiyan . In 2010, he directed the play Naughty Baba in Town , which was performed in the US and Canada. He starred in Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se (2018), which received a rating of 18% on Rotten Tomatoes. The Punjabi film industry is currently growing, with budgets increasing significantly. Dhillon continues to be active, appearing in films such as Channo Kamli Yaar Di , and will be featured in Love Punjab (releasing March 11th) with Amarinder Gill, and Ambarsaria with Daljit.

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Brahmanandam

Brahmanandam, an Indian film actor and comedian, was born on February 1, 1956, in Chaganti Vari Palem village, Sattenapalli, Andhra Pradesh. His parents are Nagalingachari and Lakshmi Narsamma, and he grew up with eight siblings. Despite limited family finances, Brahmanandam pursued education to a postgraduate level, earning a Master of Arts degree. Before finding success in cinema, he worked as a Telugu language lecturer in Attili. During this time, he also engaged in theatrical performances and mimicry competitions, demonstrating an early interest in the performing arts. Brahmanandam’s career began with the Telugu film Chantabai , but his breakthrough role arrived in 1987 with Aha Naa Pellanta! . He continued acting in films such as Pasivadi Pranam and Swayam Krushi that same year, quickly gaining popularity for his comedic roles. His filmography includes appearances in Hindi, Tamil, and Kannada productions, including a role as a doctor in Surya Vansham alongside Amitabh Bachchan. With appearances in more than 1,000 films, the actor boasts an exceptional filmography, earning him the Guinness World Record for most screen credits among living actors; he also maintains the record for the most films acted in by a living performer. Brahmanandam’s contributions to Indian cinema have been widely recognized. He received six Nandi Awards for Best Male Comedian, as well as two Filmfare Awards. In 2009, he was awarded the Padma Shri, acknowledging his significant impact on the film industry. Following a period of health concerns including heart bypass surgery in January 2019, Brahmanandam continues to be associated with the world of entertainment. Beyond acting, he enjoys sculpting, sketching, and reading philosophical works by Swami Vivekananda and Jiddu Krishnamurthi. Lakshmi is his wife, and together they are parents to two sons: Raja Goutham and Siddharth.

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Cyrus Broacha

Cyrus Broacha, born on August 7, 1971, is an Indian individual with diverse talents including anchoring, theatre performance, comedy, political satire, column writing, podcasting, and authorship. Originating in Bharuch, Gujarat, his family moved from Rawalpindi in 1947 as a result of partition; his father is Parsi and his mother is Catholic. Broacha’s performing journey commenced at five years old with a part in the school play 'The Emperor's New Clothes,' and he subsequently took part in various theatrical performances, also contributing to the school magazine, receiving awards for both English and drama. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. Broacha's career expanded beyond school productions. In 1985, he participated in his first professional play, 'Brighton Beach Memoirs,' and at age 15, made his film debut in 'Jalwa' (1987). He worked as a radio jockey in 1993, hosting shows like 'Dial-In Show.' He studied acting at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York City. He became one of the founding members of MTV VJ and hosted 'MTV Bakra' for eight years, starting in 1999, a show known for its pranks. He also hosted the satirical late-night show 'The Week That Wasn’t' on CNN-News18 from 2006, interviewing prominent figures like Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan. Among his acting credits is portraying a character inspired by Chandler Bing within the Indian version of Friends, titled 'Hello Friends'. Broacha has continued to evolve his work, releasing the books 'Karl, Aaj aur Kal' in 2010 and 'The Average Indian Male' in 2011. He started hosting the podcast 'Cyrus Says' (C& Bull) in 2015, and currently hosts 'A Century of Stories: Cricket' on YouTube. He has appeared in numerous films including 'Jalwa', '99', 'Little Zizou', 'Fruit and Nut', 'Mumbai Chakachak', 'The Shaukeens', and 'Roy'. Broacha has also participated in reality shows such as 'Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa' (2007) and 'Fear Factor – Khatron Ke Khiladi Level 3,' and took part in 'Bigg Boss OTT season 2' in June 2023. He is married to Ayesha, a photographer, and they have two children: Mikhail and Maya.

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Dinyar Contractor

Dinyar Contractor, born in 1946, was an Indian actor who worked extensively in stage, film, and television. He was recognized as a comedian and stage actor, performing in both Gujarati and Hindi theatre [1, 2]. His professional acting career began in 1966 [4, 31], following a brief period where he earned a pharma degree and worked as a medical representative [32]. Contractor’s versatility is evident in the breadth of roles he undertook, appearing in Bollywood and Tollywood films [3] and demonstrating a deep knowledge of theatre, even able to identify plagiarized plays [17]. He was often referred to as the "moon-faced comedian" [16], suggesting a distinctive comedic style. Contractor’s filmography included diverse character portrayals. He played a Theatre Owner in Cinema Cinema (1979) [7] and took on roles of authority figures, such as a Principal in Khiladi and Jawab , and a Judge in Kranti and Khichdi: The Movie [8, 9]. Other notable film appearances included playing a Casino Manager in Baadshah , Mr. Roy in Jhankaar Beats , a School Principal in Mujhse Shaadi Karogi , and the general manager of a Hotel in Chori Chori Chupke Chupke [10, 11, 12]. He also had roles as Mr. Lobo, a servant, in 36 China Town and appeared in films like Baazigar [13, 27]. His television work included appearances in serials such as Khichdi , Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashma , and Do Aur Do Paanch [28], beginning with his collaboration on the DD-2 channel's 'Aao Marvao Meri Saathe' alongside Adi Marzban in 1984 [5, 29]. Dinyar Contractor’s contributions to Indian theatre and cinema were widely acknowledged. He was a veteran theatre artiste and director [15], and he received the prestigious Padma Shri award in January 2019 [6, 23]. This recognition followed a period where he was recovering from a spine ailment [24] and had been admitted to Global Hospital for 29 days [19]. He died on June 5, 2019, at the age of 77 in Mumbai [14, 18], with his last rites performed at Worli crematorium [20]. Tributes poured in from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Smriti Irani via social media [25], reflecting the respect and affection he garnered throughout his career. He is survived by four siblings [21, 22].

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Gundu Hanumantha Rao

Gundu Hanumantha Rao, born on October 10, 1956, in Vijayawada, was an Indian actor and comedian who primarily worked in Telugu films, theatre, and television. He came from a middle-class family and began his acting journey early, appearing in the play Ravana Bramha at age 18. Before entering entertainment, he ran a confectionery business. His film debut occurred in Jandhyala’s Aha Naa Pellanta in 1987, where he gained recognition for his role as the groom’s father. V. Krishna Reddy. Notable films include Rajendrudu Gajendrudu , Mayalodu , Yamaleela , Srivariki Premalekha , Pellaniki Premalekha Priyuraliki Subhalekha (1992), Popula Pette (1997), and Apparao Driving School . He also appeared in films frequently directed by Jandhyala, K Vasu, and SV Krishna Reddy. His comedic roles were well-received in films such as Prema (1989), Kobbari Bondam (1991), Gharana Alludu (1994), and Annamayya (1997). He shared a close friendship with Brahmanandam, who affectionately called him 'Baava,' and they first acted together in Satyagraham . His work in television brought him further acclaim. He starred as Aamudaala Anjaneyalu in the TV serial Amrutham (2001–2007), a role that earned him three TV Nandi Awards, including recognition for his sharp and unconventional thinking. He also appeared in Aanando Bramha on DD Saptagiri and Sambaraala Rambabu on MAA TV. Hanumantha Rao was 61 years old when he died on February 19, 2018, in Hyderabad due to cardiac arrest secondary to chronic kidney disease. He suffered from a kidney ailment for some time before his death. In the later part of his life, he faced financial difficulties, but received assistance from Chiranjeevi, the Telangana government, and other organizations.

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Gurpreet Ghuggi

Gurpreet Ghuggi, born Gurpreet Singh Waraich on June 19, 1971, in Gurdaspur, Punjab, is an Indian actor, comedian, and politician. He is commonly known as Gurpreet Ghuggi. His career began in the early 1990s with theatre, a foundation that informs his comedic style. Following this, he was featured in television series including Ronak Mela and Parchhaven, which solidified his position in Punjabi entertainment. Ghuggi works in both Punjabi and Hindi films, demonstrating versatility across different cinematic contexts. Ghuggi gained recognition through video releases, specifically Ghuggi Junction (2003) and Ghuggi Shoo Mantar (2004), which helped to broaden his audience. He made his film debut in Jee Aayan Nu (2002). Notable roles followed, including that of Patwari Jhilmil Singh in Asa Nu Maan Watna Da (2004). His performance in Carry On Jatta (2012) further solidified his popularity. Ghuggi has also appeared in Bollywood and Canadian films like Singh Is Kinng and Breakaway, expanding his reach internationally. He was on The Great Indian Laughter Challenge. He showed his comedy to people across the country. Beyond acting, Ghuggi has engaged in various performance formats. He has performed in live concerts, including Shounki Mela 2003, Vaisakhi Mela 2009, and Vaisakhi Mela 2010. He and his wife, Kuljeet Kaur, won Star One's Hans Baliye, demonstrating their talent in a dance competition. He is married and has two children. Ghuggi’s performance in Ardaas (2015) garnered considerable acclaim, leading to him being awarded the Filmfare Award for Best Actor (critics) in 2015. Currently, he hosts the talk show Hasdeyaan De Ghar Vasde (2020) on Zee Punjabi and Zee5 alongside Khushboo Grewal. He is an eggetarian, and his professional name in Punjabi is ਗੁਰਪ੍ਰੀਤ ਘੁੱਗੀ.

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Kapil Sharma

Kapil Sharma, born Kapil Punj on April 2, 1981, in Amritsar, Punjab, India, is an Indian comedian. Jitendra Kumar Sharma comes from a family belonging to the Brahmin middle class; his father, also named Jitendra Kumar Sharma, worked for Punjab Police as a head constable, and Janak Rani handles their home's upkeep. Before pursuing comedy, Sharma worked as a PCO operator and studied at Hindu College, Amritsar. His early career included appearances on the Punjabi show Hasde Hasaande Ravo , demonstrating an initial foray into performance. Sharma’s breakthrough came in 2007 when he won The Great Indian Laughter Challenge season 3, earning a prize of ₹10 lakh. He continued to achieve success in comedy competitions, winning six seasons of Comedy Circus . While also demonstrating musical talent, placing as a runner-up in the singing reality show Star Ya Rockstar in 2011, Sharma’s comedic style is characterized by quick wit and spontaneous humor; he often uses unexpected comparisons and draws connections between seemingly unrelated things. His jokes frequently target artificial social constructs. He launched his own production banner, K9 Productions, and in 2013, created Comedy Nights with Kapil , which quickly gained popularity. Sharma has expanded beyond television, making his film debut in Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon (2015), followed by roles in Firangi (2017) and Zwigato (2023). He also appeared in films like It's My Life (2013) and a film by Karan Johar. He hosted The Kapil Sharma Show , which debuted on April 23, 2016, and is broadcast on Sony TV. Sharma has also hosted other shows including Jhalak Dikh La Jaa (Season 6) and Chhote Miyan . He married Ginni Chatrath on December 12, 2018, and they have a daughter and a son. The CNN-IBN Indian of the Year Awards in 2013 recognized Sharma’s influence on entertainment with two prizes: Indian of the Year and Entertainer of the Year. Forbes India magazine ranked him 96th among the top 100 personalities in February 2013. Currently, he resides in Mumbai and continues to work as an Indian comedian.

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Karunas

Born February 21, 1970, as Karunanidhi Sethu Thevar, Indian actor, comedian, musician, and politician Karunas operates within the Tamil film industry. His education included attendance at Palangudi Bharathi School (1987-1988) and later Nandanam Arts, Presidency College. He began his career at age 12 as a dancer and pop singer within Tamil folk music, earning the moniker 'Gaana' Karunas. Karunas’s early career involved television appearances; he made his debut in the late 1990s on Yuhi Sethu’s Naiyaandi Darbar show as a musician. He transitioned to film in 2001 with Nandha , where he played the character 'Lodukku' Pandi, a role that received critical acclaim. Following this, he appeared in supporting comedy roles in several films including Baba (2002), Pithamagan (2003), Vasool Raja MBBS (2004), and Polladhavan (2007). He also took on distribution responsibilities for Pori and Kattradhu Thamizh in 2007, though these ventures were unsuccessful. In 2008, he starred in Dindigul Sarathy , a film that proved to be a surprise success. Throughout the 2010s, Karunas continued acting in lead roles in films such as Ambasamudram Ambani (2010), Chandhamama (2013), Ragalaipuram (2013), and Lodukku Pandi (2015). He also made his music directorial debut in Rajadhi Raja (2009). His filmography includes singing contributions to films like Shree (2002), Chennai 600028 , and Ceylon . He reached a milestone with Komban (2015), marking his hundredth film appearance. From October 2015, Karunas held the position of vice president at Nadigar Sangam, a union representing actors, and participated in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election in 2016. Remaining active in the film world, Karunas has appeared in films including Soorarai Pottru (2020) and Pogumidam Vegu Thooramillai (2024); he is married to playback singer Grace and together they have a daughter, Diana Karunas, and a son, Ken Karunas.

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Kovai Sarala

Kovai Sarala, an Indian entertainer, performs as an actress, comedian, and singer. Born in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, in 1962, she hails from a Malayali family. Her interest in acting began after watching films by M. G. Ramachandran (MGR). She started her film career early, appearing in Velli Ratham in 1979 while still in the 9th standard, followed by Thaliritta Kinakkal in 1980. After completing Class 10, she performed in theatre and stage shows for several years before taking on supporting roles primarily in Tamil and Telugu films. Sarala’s comedy style often involves portraying characters of various ages, as demonstrated by her early roles playing a pregnant woman in Mundhanai Mudichu (1983) and a 65-year-old mother in Chinna Veedu (1985), while still attending school. Her collaborations with top comedians like Vadivelu and Brahmanandam are particularly memorable, with their pairings being widely recognized. Some of her personal favorite films include Karakattakkaran (1989), Varavu Ettana Selavu Pathana (1994), Sathi Leelavathi (1995), Viralukketha Veekkam (1999), and Viswanathan Ramamoorthy (2001). Sarala received the Tamil Nadu State Film Award recognizing her comedic talent on three occasions: in 1995 for *Sathi Leelavathi*, in 2001 for *Poovellam Un Vaasam*, and in 2008 for *Uliyin Osai*. Additionally, she received two Nandi Awards for Best Female Comedian and a Vijay Award and an IIFA Award for her role in Kanchana (2011). She has also appeared in television series such as Paasa Paravaigal , Varuthapadatha Valibar Sangam , and Chellame Chellam , and has served as a judge on several comedy shows, including Comedyil Kalakkuvathu Eppadi . Currently, she is a regular judge on Varuthapadatha Valibar Sangam and hosts the children’s game show Chellame Chellam . She is also a member of Kamal Haasan's Makkal Needhi Maiam Party.

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Rajpal Yadav

Rajpal Naurang Yadav, born on March 16, 1971, in Kundra Banda village, Shahjahanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, India, is an Indian actor and comedian primarily working in Hindi cinema. He received training at the Bharatendu Natya Academy and the National School of Drama in Delhi. His acting career began in 1999 with Dil Kya Kare , and he subsequently established himself as a comedic actor through films like Pyar Tune Kya Kiya , Zindagi Ka Safar , and Tumko Na Bhul Paayenge . He is considered a talented comedic actor. Yadav’s breakthrough role came in 2000 with Jungle , where he portrayed a negative character and won the Sansui Screen Best Actor award for that role. He gained recognition for his slapstick comic performances, appearing in numerous films throughout the early 2000s. Notable films include Ek Aur Ek Gyarah (2003), Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004), Waqt: The Race Against Time (2005), Phir Hera Pheri (2006), Partner (2007), and Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007). He frequently collaborated with director Priyadarshan, appearing in films like Hungama (2003), Garam Masala , and Malamaal Weekly (2005). He has also demonstrated versatility by taking on serious roles in films such as Main Madhuri Dixit Banna Chahti Hoon (2003) and Main, Meri Patni Aur Woh (2005), earning the Yash Bharati Award for the former. He has appeared in over 150 films. Rajpal Yadav has received nominations for Filmfare and Screen Awards throughout his career. In 2015, he made his Telugu language debut with Kick 2 . He has also ventured into sports management, owning the Mumbai Strikers cricket team in the World Disabled T10 league. Personal challenges have impacted Yadav's life; he remarried Radha Yadav in 2003 after losing his first wife shortly after their child's birth and now has three daughters. He has faced legal issues, including imprisonment in 2013 and 2018, and a six-month sentence in Tihar Jail in 2026. He publicly discussed his financial difficulties and feelings of isolation during these times, but actor Sonu Sood offered him support by casting him in an upcoming film.

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