In the rapidly evolving landscape of stand-up comedy, where laughter can be sparked by a single punchline or a provocative word, Rajeev Thakur stands out for his firm stance on the quality of content. Known for his clean humor and sharp wit, Rajeev believes that the heart of comedy lies not in vulgarity but in creativity and thoughtfulness. In a candid conversation, Rajeev shared his views on the current state of stand-up comedy, the impact of social media, and the importance of staying true to one’s craft.
The Cheap Thrill of Abusive Comedy
In the world of comedy, where different styles appeal to different audiences, Rajeev Thakur is clear about his preferences. He emphasizes that while younger audiences might flock to stand-up acts filled with expletives, this style doesn’t resonate with everyone. “Using abusive language has become a norm for some, especially in open mics, but I consider it the cheapest way to make people laugh,” Rajeev says. He points out that comedy should be a universal language, one that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, including families.
Rajeev draws a parallel to the early days of actor Emraan Hashmi, who was often associated with risqué content. “Just like how there was a lot of talk about obscenity when Emraan Hashmi became popular, the same is happening with OTT platforms today. But if the audience stops consuming such content, the creators will be forced to change,” he adds, urging both comedians and audiences to seek out quality over shock value.
The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media
The rise of social media has significantly impacted the comedy scene. Rajeev acknowledges that platforms like Instagram and YouTube have given comedians new avenues to reach audiences. However, he also warns that this comes with its own set of challenges. “Our responsibility has increased,” he explains. “Comedy is not easy; it requires polishing and refining. When people post someone else’s jokes on social media, it harms the original artist.”
Rajeev emphasizes that jokes are not like songs that can be repeated over and over. “Once a punchline is delivered, its impact diminishes with repetition,” he notes. For comedians, posting a joke online often means they have retired it from their live acts, moving on to craft new material. This cycle of creation and abandonment is what keeps the art of comedy alive and fresh.
The Competitive Nature of Comedy: Friends and Rivals
In any profession, competition is inevitable, and comedy is no exception. Rajeev reflects on how competition can strain even the strongest friendships. “Whether you’re a comedian, singer, or any other artist, competition can turn friends into rivals,” he says. He likens it to two friends opening separate shops—each one’s success can unintentionally cause discomfort to the other.
However, Rajeev also believes in the power of maintaining these friendships despite the competition. He cites his long-lasting friendships with fellow comedians Kapil Sharma and Chandan Prabhakar as examples. “If our friendship has survived in this competitive industry, it shows how beautiful our journey has been,” he adds, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and support.
Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life
One of the secrets to Rajeev Thakur’s enduring success in comedy is his ability to find humor in the ordinary. He shares that his inspiration often comes from the people he meets and the places he visits. “We travel a lot, and that’s where we find our characters,” Rajeev explains. Whether it’s a conversation with a journalist or an observation in a crowded market, he’s always on the lookout for material that can be transformed into comedy.
This ability to see the funny side of everyday situations has been honed over 18 years of making people laugh. Rajeev takes pride in working alongside some of the top artists in the industry, and he credits his keen observation skills for his success. “I carry all the arrows in my quiver,” he says, ready to draw from a wealth of experiences to create humor that resonates with his audience.
Remembering Raju Srivastava: An Unfinished Meeting
The late comedian Raju Srivastava holds a special place in Rajeev’s heart. The two worked together extensively, and Rajeev recalls Raju’s unmatched energy and dedication to his craft. “He was a man who could perform live for three hours without breaking a sweat,” Rajeev remembers. Raju’s work ethic was evident in his daily routine—he had a room in his house filled with mirrors where he would write and rehearse his material.
Rajeev also shares a poignant memory of buying a house across from Raju’s residence. “He had promised to visit, but unfortunately, that meeting never happened. I feel like that chapter of our friendship remains incomplete,” Rajeev says, reflecting on the missed opportunity to reconnect with a dear friend.
The Healing Power of Humor
For Rajeev Thakur, humor is not just a profession; it’s a tool for reducing stress and bringing joy into people’s lives. He believes that comedy should be taken seriously, as it plays a crucial role in mental well-being. “Making someone laugh is the hardest job,” he asserts. “It requires a lot of effort, and if we listen to comedians with patience and encourage them, we can nurture the next generation of talent.”
Rajeev concludes with a simple yet profound observation: “Humor is the only thing that can reduce stress in life. If we enjoy it instead of picking it apart, we’ll find ourselves needing fewer medicines.” In a world where stress is a constant companion, Rajeev Thakur’s words remind us of the importance of laughter and the comedians who make it possible.
