'Kapil Sharma had no hair, a potbelly & looked like a..': Navjot Singh Sidhu RECALLS comedian's initial days

After a brief hiatus from the entertainment world, former cricketer, politician, and television personality Navjot Singh Sidhu is back in the limelight with renewed energy. Known for his flamboyant style, sharp wit, and memorable one-liners, Sidhu has returned to Indian television, joining the judge’s panel on the popular reality series India’s Got Talent.

This new television appearance follows his recent stint on The Great Indian Kapil Show, the Netflix talk show hosted by long-time friend and comedian Kapil Sharma. With India’s Got Talent airing its latest season on Sony TV every Saturday and Sunday at 9:30 pm, Sidhu’s return marks a significant step in both his entertainment and personal journey.

From Netflix to National Television: Sidhu’s Steady Comeback:

Earlier in 2025, Sidhu made his digital comeback through The Great Indian Kapil Show after a year away from the public eye. His sharp sense of humour, poetic musings, and natural charisma reminded fans why he was such a beloved presence on Indian television for years, particularly during his previous tenure as a judge on The Kapil Sharma Show.

Now, as part of the judging panel on India’s Got Talent alongside Malaika Arora and Shaan, Sidhu is once again bringing his unique energy to the small screen. Known for celebrating diverse talent and encouraging performers from all corners of India, the show is an apt platform for someone who has always believed in the power of opportunity.

Kapil Sharma’s Rise Proves Talent Needs the Right Stage, Says Sidhu:

In a recent conversation with Navbharat Times, Sidhu offered a candid reflection on his personal struggles and the societal expectations that often suppress passion and creativity.

'Following your passion isn’t easy. Neither your parents nor society appreciates it. Parents tell you to become a doctor or an engineer. They stifle your aspirations and force you to study. Meanwhile, society is constantly trying to belittle you. So, you have to overcome the hurdle; the biggest disease in the world is what people will say,' he said.

Sidhu’s words resonate with many in a country where unconventional careers still face resistance. He stressed the importance of a platform for raw talent, using Kapil Sharma’s journey as an example of how exposure can transform a life.

'Furthermore, talent needs a platform. Talent without opportunity is meaningless. For example, Kapil Sharma used to work two days a week at Bhullar’s theatre society for Rs 100. Then, when he first appeared on TV in 2006, he had no hair, a potbelly, and looked like a 45-year-old. But when he performed on a bigger platform, his talent shone. In the IPL, people also become stars overnight because they get a bigger platform.'

When Sidhuism Reached the White House:

Navjot Singh Sidhu is also famous for his colourful expressions, often dubbed “Sidhuism” by fans and the media. These metaphorical quotes and philosophical quips have earned him a distinct place in pop culture, even catching the attention of world leaders.

He shared an interesting anecdote from his political days involving former US President George W Bush.

'When I was in the BJP, Sardar Manmohan Singh invited me to dinner. His PA called and told me that George Bush was coming and asked what Sidhuism was. He was told that whatever this man says becomes Sidhuism. So he said, ‘I want to meet him.’ When I went, he asked me to quote a quote on positivity. I said, ‘Keep your face towards the sun so you never have to see your shadow.’ He laughed, but I didn’t plan these things. I just speak from the heart, and people connect with it.'

This story is one of many that showcases Sidhu’s larger-than-life personality and his ability to charm audiences well beyond the cricket field or political arena.

A New Chapter After Personal Trials:

Sidhu’s return to the spotlight has not been without emotional weight. In 2023, he took a break from public life to support his wife following her cancer diagnosis. It was a difficult year that also saw him step back from active politics.

Earlier in 2025, he launched a YouTube channel, sharing personal insights, thoughts on current events, and motivational messages. His re-entry into mainstream media with India’s Got Talent appears to be part of a conscious decision to refocus on entertainment and connect with the public in a more uplifting space.

With a career that has spanned professional cricket, politics, and television, Navjot Singh Sidhu continues to reinvent himself while staying true to his passion for expression. Whether through humour, poetry, or deep reflections, his words still strike a chord with the audience — and perhaps that is the essence of Sidhuism itself.