Sarabhai back in June end

(IDIOT) BOX ANTICS

The small screen, too, is facing the comic onslaught in a big way. Saas-bahu soaps notwithstanding, comic programmes like The Great Indian Laughter Challenge (TGILC) and Hum Paanch are making an impact on the popularity charts. "Viewers have always been interested in comedies as everyone loves a hearty laugh," says Shailaja Kejriwal, senior creative director, Star India. Taking a cue, other channels have also jumped in the comic fray. If Zee has launched Johny Ala Re, Sony joins the laughter club with Wah Wah. Even Star One plans to re-launch Sarabhai vs Sarabhai by June end. Then there are all-time favourites such as MTV Bakra and Chhupa Rustam.

The latest to join the bandwagon are funny spoofs. Remember Piddhu — The Great, Semi Girebaal and, more recently, Ghoom, a witty take on the 2004 hit film Dhoom. "People want to relax with humour rather than saas-bahu dramas. Plus, comedies are presented in a well-packaged manner today," opines actor Shekhar Suman. "Everything comes in a phase. Right now, comedy seems to be the key to success," says Johny Lever.