Vir Das takes a JIBE at Indian Award Shows; also mocks India's Got Latent Controversy

In a recent commentary, Vir Das, known for his sharp wit, took a swipe at Indian award shows, pointing out the inherent difficulty of delivering an "edgy joke" when hosts spend the opening minutes reciting a long list of sponsors. The comedian and actor also subtly referenced the "India's Got Latent" controversy, adding a layer of commentary to his observations about the state of award ceremonies in India.

While watching a major entertainment awards show, I’m pretty sure a few fellow Indian comedians play a game in our head. We wonder why Indian award shows don’t use modern stand-up comedians at major awards. Then… we think of some of the jokes we would do, the utter sh*tstorm that would follow, then we think it’s probably for the best

- Vir Das

He added, “Also, we remember the opening monologue is at the top of the show, which logically requires showing up on time and staying for the whole show, which again reaffirms… probably for the best. Also, just rhythm-wise… it’s hard to do an edgy joke after saying ‘Manikchand Pan Pasand Fun Flips Zorro Plus Zandu Bandu MDH MCD Motorola Parivar…’"

Vir's comments, coming on the heels of the Academy Awards hosted by Conan O'Brien, where stand-up comedy was a central element, highlight the growing significance of comedy in entertainment. His remarks also implicitly address the recent "India's Got Latent" controversy, which ignited discussions about free speech and the influence of new media in India's entertainment landscape.

Vir, in a recent statement, criticized the media's coverage of the "India's Got Latent" controversy, calling it an attempt by "irrelevant mainstream media anchors on the verge of extinction" to discredit new media platforms that garner millions of views.