Joshua Bethania: Being in front of an audience feels a bit like home

HAILING from India originally, Joshua Bethania has been making a big impact on the UK stand-up comedy scene in the past few years with winning performances, great acclaim and recognition for his talent.

The young London-based funny man is joining an impressive line-up of comedians on The Indians Are Coming UK tour this month. He will be delivering his own brand of unique humour at the popular laughter-filled shows.

Eastern Eye caught up with him to find out more.

What first connected you to stand up comedy?

I think it was the first time that I saw a brown man on stage.

What is a strong memory of being on stage doing comedy?

It was just post Covid lockdowns. I remember we had to sanitise our hands and use different microphones for each act. That was unique, I guess.

How do you feel being on stage now?

Being on stage in front of an audience feels a bit like home now. I’m nervous but comfortable.

How much are you looking forward to being part of The Indians Are Coming shows?

Very much so! I’m really looking forward to being part of this popular tour, alongside such great talents. It’s always a challenge to perform to a crowd that is already aware of your culture.

What can we expect from your stand up set?

You can expect a bit of immigrant observations and some personal experiences of my life. For the rest, come to the shows.

How does it feel to be on a bill with other great comedians?

It’s always great, especially when they’re south Asians. It’s more comfortable and it is important we have more brown comedians. Full credit to Altaf Sarwar from Luv Entertainment for producing these shows.

What inspires you as a comedian?

As a comedian, you have to find inspiration from everywhere. But for me it’s the ability to do badly and still want to go and perform again. I wish I felt this way in all aspects of my life.

Who is your own comedy hero?

There are so many great comedy talents. Russell Peters was one of the first Indian-origin standup comedians I had seen. Sindhu Vee, whom I get to be on the bill with is a hero of mine. A recent find is Nimesh Patel, who is such a hard worker and constantly churning out great specials every year.

Who is the funniest person you know in real life?

My uncle, God rest his soul. He could make a joke within six seconds of meeting you.

Has being funny ever got you out of trouble in real life?

No, it has never helped me get out of trouble. In fact, being funny has only got me in trouble.

Why should we all come to The Indians Are Coming shows?

Come see why comedy does not have one defined look. See the diversity within the diversity. Each comic is so different and ready to entertain you. India is probably the most diverse country, and you will see why.

Joshua Bethania is part of The Indians Are Coming line up at The Top Secret Comedy Club, 170a Drury Lane, London WC2B 5PD on Thursday November 23; and The Y Theatre, 7 East Street, Leicester LE1 6EY on November 26. See www. luventertainment. co.uk for further information and more tour dates.