Exclusive Interview: Kiku Sharda Opens Up About Family, Comedy Peers, and Industry Insights
Renowned comedian and actor Kiku Sharda, celebrated for his impeccable comic timing and memorable roles, recently sat down for an exclusive chat with Times of India TV. In a candid conversation, he delved into personal anecdotes about his family's reaction to his work, shared admiration for fellow comedians, and reflected on the evolving comedy landscape in the age of social media.
Family Support and Positive Reactions to Female Roles
Kiku Sharda expressed initial concerns about how his children might be affected by his portrayal of female characters on television. "I always thought my kids might get teased, that someone would say something to them," he admitted. However, the reality has been overwhelmingly positive. His children have never faced any teasing, and instead, their teachers have shown enthusiasm, even asking to visit the sets. This supportive environment has been a source of comfort for Sharda.
Recalling a heartwarming moment, Sharda shared that his son, when he was around 12 or 13 years old, reassured him by saying, "If something happens, we can handle it." This resilience and lack of negative feedback have reinforced Sharda's confidence in his family's ability to navigate his career choices without issue.
Navigating Social Media and Instant Feedback
Discussing the impact of social media, Sharda highlighted the unique experience of receiving immediate reactions after an episode airs. "It's quite a unique experience. Once an episode ends and the telecast is over, you immediately see reactions on social media, with people saying they liked it," he noted. While he appreciates the encouragement, he also acknowledged the downside, where negative comments often gain more attention. Despite this, Sharda enjoys being active on platforms like Instagram, where he creates random reels for fun rather than monetary gain.
He reflected on the democratization of fame through social media, expressing happiness for content creators from remote villages who can now build their own platforms without waiting for traditional opportunities. This shift, he believes, is an amazing development in the entertainment industry.
Praise for Sunil Grover's Exceptional Talent
Sharda spoke highly of his colleague Sunil Grover, describing him as being on another level in terms of performance and attention to detail. "Sunil is on another level. The way he thinks and performs is incredibly detailed," he said, praising Grover's precise movements and observant nature. Sharda expressed joy at Grover's return to the comedy scene, noting their collaboration on four seasons for Netflix and emphasizing that Grover deserves all the appreciation he receives.
He also reminisced about a special finale episode where he, Krushna, and Sunil performed together, a rare occurrence that made the act memorable. This collaboration, he said, was well-received by audiences and ended the season on a strong note.
Unwavering Support for Kapil Sharma
Sharda revealed his deep respect and support for Kapil Sharma, whom he considers an incredible talent. "For Kapil Sharma, I've always believed he is an incredible talent," he stated, adding that he has always stood by Sharma through ups and downs. Sharda praised Sharma's ability to entertain effortlessly, often without a script, and expressed hope for his continued growth in the industry.
Thoughts on a Possible Second Season of F.I.R.
When asked about viewer demands for a second season of the popular show F.I.R., Sharda expressed uncertainty due to the passage of time—nearly 10 years—and tight schedules. "I'm not sure if there will be a second season," he said, noting that while it would be interesting, coordinating the entire cast would be challenging given current commitments. He fondly recalled the show, which aired on Sony, as a wonderful experience but highlighted the difficulties of reuniting for a weekly show in an era dominated by daily soaps.
In summary, Kiku Sharda's interview offers a glimpse into his personal life, professional relationships, and optimistic view of the comedy world's evolution. His insights underscore the importance of family support, peer admiration, and adaptability in the fast-paced entertainment industry.
