THE Soho Theatre in London has introduced a huge list of stunning Indian stand-up stars to UK audiences and continues that impressive run with Shreeja Chaturvedi.
The cool comedian, with a massive online following, will deliver her debut UK show Forgive and Forget from March 26–28 at the popular venue. She’ll tackle an array of subjects, including confrontations. The shows in Hindi will allow her to cross another creative horizon in what has already been an actionpacked journey.
Eastern Eye caught up with the fabulously talented funny girl to find out more ahead of her shows.
What first connected you to comedy?
I think it was the first time I noticed people paying attention to what I said – when I was cracking a joke. I just wanted people around me to like me quickly, and cracking a joke seemed easier than picking up a musical instrument.
What drew you towards stand-up comedy?
I thought it would be fun to add technicality to making jokes. Creating funny imagery with words and seeing reactions change with just a little rearrangement of phrases, finding a rhythm with a room full of people – it’s all so exciting. But the best part is definitely the fame.
How do you feel when you’re on stage in front of a live audience?
Very cool. Like I’m probably cooler than all of them.
How much of your humour is based on personal experiences?
Pretty much all of it. It’s difficult for me to land any other kind of jokes.
Do you ever feel like you are revealing too much on stage?
Yes, an occupational hazard, I guess. I’ve offended a lot of people dear to me because I am very quick to take a conversation to the stage.
How excited are you for your Soho Theatre debut?
I’m beyond excited. It’s my first time in London, performing to an audience outside of India. I’m planning to journal it – that’s how much I’m looking forward to it.
What can we expect from your London show?
A lot of personal experiences, with men in particular. Not in a romantic capacity – just general male behaviour. And a few jokes about Indian infrastructure.
Do you know if a joke will be funny before you go on stage?
I think I’m getting better at identifying which jokes will work. I look for common experiences that the audience can relate to or find a fresh take on something. But I do get attached to the ones that don’t work immediately and take a while to give up on them. Would you say you are you a fearless comedian?
Yes, as long as no one is noticing. As soon as I sense trouble, I apologise.
How do you feel being part of an Indian wave of top stand-up comedians making a mark internationally?
I feel great I got the visa to make that mark.
Has being funny ever got you out of trouble?
It’s gotten me out of a lot of financial troubles, actually.
Do you have a personal comedy hero?
Abhishek Upmanyu and Kanan Gill, back home, are the two comedians who’ve influenced me the most, in terms of technicality, brevity, and clarity of thought.
Is there something that inspires you creatively?
Other people’s success really inspires me to do better (than them at least)
Why should we all come to your London show?
Because I’ve already booked my tickets! And I think it’s going to be a good show.
Shreeja Chaturvedi: Forgive and Forget at Soho Theatre, 21 Dean Street, London W1D 3NE, from March 26–28. www.sohotheatre.com
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.