DDLJ’s Chutki Pooja Ruparel finds her funny side

Pooja Ruparel, who first won hearts as a child artist in King Uncle and later as Chutki in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, has reinvented herself as a stand-up comedian. Decades after her early fame, she continues to entertain audiences with her wit and creativity. Pooja says that while fan attention sometimes comes with pressure, it also fuels her artistic journey.

“It definitely adds pressure, especially when for 30 years you’ve been answering the same questions,” she laughs. “But if you’re a creative person, you learn to turn challenges into something meaningful. That’s how I discovered stand-up comedy. I took all those repeated, funny questions fans asked me and turned them into a comic routine. So, come to one of my shows — you’ll see how I turn pressure into comedy gold!”

My fans are adorable and understanding. Every interaction I’ve had with them has been warm, genuine, and full of love

- Pooja Ruparel

Warm Fan Connections

Pooja feels fortunate that her fans have always been kind and respectful. “I’m the best kind of famous,” she says with a smile. “My fans are adorable and understanding. Every interaction I’ve had with them has been warm, genuine, and full of love.”

Having been in the spotlight since childhood, she has witnessed how fans express their admiration. Pooja recalls the earlier days fondly. “I come from the autograph generation! Back then, getting an autograph felt special, like owning a piece of your favourite star. Today, it’s all about selfies — and I actually love them too. I wish I had selfies with all the stars whose autographs I once collected. Still, autographs have their own charm.”

Navigating the Social Media Era

In today’s world of constant online visibility, Pooja maintains a healthy balance with social media. “Luckily, I’m not obsessed with it,” she explains. “My connection with fans comes through my work. Every bit of patience, learning, and creativity I put in is for them.”

For her, the focus has always been on authenticity rather than appearance. She believes social media should be a tool for connection, not comparison. “It’s important to stay true to yourself and your art,” she adds.

Embracing Evolution

From a child star loved by millions to a stand-up comic who makes people laugh about life’s ironies, Pooja has continuously evolved. Her journey reflects resilience, humour, and honesty. “My fans’ love keeps me going,” she says. “It’s the biggest compliment an artist can ever receive. As long as I can make people smile, that’s all the reward I need.”