Supriya Joshi's Unplanned Path to Stand-Up Comedy Stardom
For Supriya Joshi, the journey into stand-up comedy was anything but deliberate—it unfolded through a serendipitous twist of fate. "I was employed at AIB back in 2017 with zero intentions of pursuing stand-up," she reveals. "The thought of being skilled at it never crossed my mind, but a persistent colleague urged me to take the stage at AIB's inaugural major open mic event, marking the start of it all." Reflecting on that pivotal moment, she adds, "With over 70 attendees, my nerves were through the roof. Then, that first genuine laugh echoed through the room. It was as if a switch flipped within me. I realized, perhaps this is my true calling, and I'm immensely grateful for how it transpired."
International Collaborations and Cultural Nuances in Comedy
Supriya, who recently showcased her talent at Brown Girls Stand-Up alongside Australia-based stand-up artists, highlights the excitement of such cross-border partnerships. "Working with female comedians from Australia was a thrilling experience," she notes. "While we all share Indian roots, our viewpoints and comedic approaches diverge significantly. Cultural contexts may vary, but the essence remains constant: if you can craft something humorous, laughter will follow."
The Evolving Landscape for Women in Indian Stand-Up Comedy
Discussing the role of women in comedy, Supriya observes that stand-up in India is still in its nascent stages compared to global counterparts. "It naturally takes time for women to carve out their space in this arena," she explains. "When I embarked on this journey, female presence on the circuit was sparse. Today, we're seeing more women step up, and I'm confident the balance will continue to improve gradually."
She offers pragmatic advice for those eyeing a career in comedy: "Stand-up isn't financially sustainable initially; you might not earn a rupee. My counsel is to hold onto your day job. Persist with your work, perform at shows, and create content—only consider quitting once your income stabilizes." Delving deeper, she shares a profound insight: "I believe comedy often springs from profound pain. Stand-up comedians delve into their darkest corners and joke about it, fostering a sense of relatability among us all."
Navigating Backlash and Pushing Creative Boundaries
Acknowledging the realities of backlash and controversy, Supriya emphasizes a strategy of self-preservation. "There are topics I steer clear of, but there's a wealth of other material I'm eager to explore, so I channel my energy there," she states. "Every stand-up comedian, in their unique way, is gently pushing boundaries. Over time, I hope we'll grow more receptive to diverse perspectives and expressions."
