Vir Das: Making a Mind Fool of Himself on Global Comedy Tour
Renowned comedian discusses Emmy win, latest show "Mind Fool," and the evolving landscape of stand-up comedy.
In a groundbreaking journey through live comedy, Vir Das achieved international acclaim with his Emmy award-winning Netflix special, "Vir Das: Landing," in November. Despite the glory, the comedian is now engrossed in a massive world tour for his latest show, "Mind Fool," covering 33 countries, including multiple shows in England this December.
Eastern Eye caught up with Vir Das to discuss his Emmy win, the new show, the essence of comedy, the significance of taking small steps, and the advice he offers to emerging comics.
Emmy Win and Global Impact: Vir Das, known as India's most popular English-language stand-up star, expressed his pride in receiving the International Emmy award, emphasizing its significance for Indian comedy on the global stage. He believes this recognition opens doors to Indian stories, marking a special milestone.
"Mind Fool" - A Personal Journey: "Mind Fool" explores the challenges of adulting, portraying adults as individuals pretending to have it all figured out. The show delves into personal experiences, providing a mix of discomfort and comfort through satire and storytelling. Vir Das considers it a reflection of the arc of his life.
On the Global Landscape of Comedy: Vir Das acknowledges that the comedy scene has become language-agnostic, with content reaching audiences worldwide. He highlights the democratization of comedy through online platforms, allowing comedians to connect with diverse audiences.
Performing in the UK: Starting his career in the basement of Soho Theatre in London, Vir Das reflects on the journey from a 90-seater room to selling out iconic venues like the Apollo. He credits Soho Theatre for being his starting point and values the loyal audience that has grown with him.
The Pressure of Success: While Vir Das feels pressure before every show, it stems from the responsibility to deliver an unforgettable experience for his audience. The anticipation and effort invested by attendees, including planning months in advance, add a unique pressure that he takes seriously.
World Tour Decision: The decision for the world tour involves exploring countries not covered previously. Vir Das cites the privilege of having 1.6 billion Indian viewers and the exposure gained from being on Netflix as factors contributing to the success of his global tours.
Advice to Emerging Comics: Vir Das emphasizes the importance of authenticity and connecting with the audience emotionally. He encourages artists to let the audience into their lives, creating a sense of friendship and ensuring a lasting connection.
Balance Between Stand-Up and Acting: While recognized for his stand-up, Vir Das reveals that the upcoming year will focus more on acting. He shares insights into the deliberate choices made between stand-up and acting, driven by the demand of each phase in his career.
Fearlessness and Honesty: Vir Das intends to maintain his honesty on stage, valuing the emotional connection with the audience. He expresses no fear in revealing personal details, emphasizing the satisfaction of leaving everything on stage.
New Year's Resolution: Vir Das dismisses the idea of making resolutions and looks forward to indulging in sugar on New Year's Eve. He remains committed to maintaining honesty and fearlessness in his performances, ensuring his audience's satisfaction.