Stand Up Mumbai: The city's tomcats of comedy

Mumbai discovered its funny bone about a year ago, and now it just can’t be tickled enough.

While many local fledglings try to find their footing, a few professionals, who previously endured much criticism, have become well-respected and in-demand names on the comedy circuit. 

Two such are Vir Das and Sorabh Pant, who collaborate to put together shows such as Walking on Broken Das (which has, until recently, primarily been staged in Mumbai but is now going across the country as well as the world). They also put together an event aptly titled The Weirdass Hamateur Nights to discover fresh talent in venues around the country.

Rohan Joshi, Kunal Rao and Ashish Shakya are three young Mumbai men who first tried their hand at stand up comedy at a Hammateur Night. Since then, they’ve had their first few paid gigs and are well on their way to professional status. Another event that gives newbies some stage time is the Open Mic Night at Café Goa, put together by the Bombay Elektrik Projekt. Neston Moras and Kaizad are the two brave young souls who took a chance and performed well.

The future of comedy in Mumbai is most likely going to be found at the Comedy Store, setting up shop soon at the Palladium mall in Lower Parel. But barrels of laughter can be had locally and regularly at venues such as the NCPA, Blue Frog, Café Goa, college festivals, Bonobo and HQ.

In fact, Bombay Elektrik's Krack You Up nights at Cafe Goa is on tonight 9:15-11:30pm.

English, Hindi, Marathi is welcome, as long is it is your own work. Register for your slot at the venue at 9.00pm. First come, first served. Call +91 98209 98790 or email krackyouup@bombayelektrik.com