In a world where humor heals and laughter is the loudest applause, there’s one man who seems to have cracked the code to tickling the nation’s funny bone. Picture a maestro who can turn mundane moments into riotous spectacles, a performer whose antics are as colorful as his wardrobe, and a storyteller who doesn’t just deliver punchlines but packs a whole punch of personality. He’s the guy who can impersonate your favorite stars so well, even they might applaud in disbelief. A whirlwind of energy, wit, and a little mischief, his stage is his playground, and his audience? His co-conspirators in comedy.
If you haven’t guessed already, this laugh riot is none other than Krushna Abhishek, the man who wears many hats—sometimes literally. From being the face behind unforgettable characters to the voice that turns everyday chaos into comedic symphonies, Krushna has mastered the fine art of making us laugh until we cry. So, let’s peel back the curtain and step into the mind of the man who’s been running the ‘Laughter Factory’ without a glitch. Prepare to giggle, grin, and gasp as we unravel the genius behind the gags.
Excerpts from the interview:
Can you share some fond memories from your childhood and how they shaped the person you are today?
I was raised in a very filmy environment. My father had bought Farah Khan’s father’s house in Juhu, Tara Road, near Kishore Kumar’s bungalow, in a society called Nehru Nagar. It was a very vibrant place, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of Bollywood. Farah Khan was our neighbor, and I remember dancers frequently visiting her house. She used to choreograph and rehearse on her terrace. I would watch all of this in awe, fascinated by the world of entertainment.
On the other hand, my mama, Govinda, was a Bollywood star. I often accompanied him to film sets, watching actors perform and understanding how films were made. This exposure ignited my passion for acting. I was also a very mischievous child and loved mimicking people. I would imitate my teachers and anyone else who caught my attention. The first person I mimicked was Mr. Amitabh Bachchan. I remember going to his house on Holi with my mama, and Govinda Ji told him, “Bachchan Sahab, he mimics you.” I showed him, and his appreciation for my impression is a memory I still cherish deeply. These experiences shaped me into the entertainer I am today.
Growing up, who were your biggest inspirations, both personally and professionally?
My biggest inspiration has always been my mama, Govinda. I grew up watching his films and observing his impeccable comic timing and versatility as an actor. He introduced me to the world of cinema, and through him, I was exposed to Charlie Chaplin, Jim Carrey, and incredible Marathi cinema. These influences taught me how comedy transcends boundaries and cultures. Watching my mama work so hard while staying humble and grounded inspired me to follow in his footsteps and carve my own niche in the industry.
Did you always want to pursue a career in entertainment, or was there a different dream before comedy and acting came into your life?
From the very beginning, I wanted to be an actor. Growing up in a filmy family and witnessing the magic of cinema firsthand left me no choice but to fall in love with it. My love for acting was deeply ingrained in me, thanks to my upbringing. I realized early on that I had a knack for comedy because I loved making people laugh. Mimicking others came naturally to me, and I decided to channel that talent into a career.
Could you share some challenges you faced while starting out in the entertainment industry and how you overcame them?
My journey in the entertainment industry wasn’t smooth. My first movie, Yeh Kaisi Mohabbat (2002), didn’t do well at the box office. After that, I worked in several regional films, but success eluded me for a long time. There were moments of doubt and struggle, but I never gave up. I put in my best effort into every project, no matter the outcome.
Comedy requires a lot of hard work—every gag and every joke demands immense preparation and precision. Over time, I groomed myself, honed my craft, and adapted to different platforms, whether it was films, television, or live shows. My mantra has always been a “never give up” attitude. Consistency, perseverance, and a strong belief in myself helped me overcome every hurdle.
You’ve worked in films, television, and live shows. Which medium do you enjoy the most and why?
I genuinely enjoy all mediums because each one offers a unique experience. Live shows, however, hold a special place in my heart. Performing live is an incredible feeling—you get an instant reaction from the audience, and the energy is unmatched. Not everyone gets the chance to perform live, and I consider myself very lucky.
That said, I also enjoy the process of filmmaking, even though it’s slower with multiple cuts and retakes. My favorite movie experience was working on Bol Bachchan with Rohit Shetty. It was a joy to be part of such a fantastic team. Ultimately, every platform—be it films, television, or live shows—allows me to express myself creatively, and I cherish them all.
Are there any upcoming ventures or collaborations that you’re excited about and would like to share with us?
I am incredibly excited about my upcoming show, Laughter Chefs. We didn’t expect it to become such a huge success initially, but the love it has received has been overwhelming. The show is coming back, and I couldn’t be happier.
I’m also thrilled about my ongoing work with The Kapil Sharma Show. Every performance feels like a new adventure. The excitement of reading the script and preparing for the stage gives me butterflies even today. Right now, my focus is on Laughter Chefs, and I’m looking forward to sharing more laughs with the audience.
What message would you like to give to young individuals aspiring to enter the entertainment industry?
The entertainment industry is challenging but incredibly rewarding if you’re passionate and persistent. My advice to aspiring artists is to never give up. Success doesn’t come overnight; it takes years of hard work, dedication, and self-improvement. Groom yourself constantly, and don’t be afraid of failures—they are stepping stones to success.
Remember, “once an actor, always an actor.” Be consistent, stay true to your craft, and always give your best. The journey may be tough, but the joy of doing what you love makes it all worthwhile.
And with that, we bring the curtains down on this riotous ride with the master of mimicry, the czar of comedy, and the torchbearer of timeless laughter, Krushna Abhishek. From his filmy childhood escapades in Nehru Nagar to his larger-than-life presence on stage and screen, Krushna has shown us that humor isn’t just a profession—it’s a way of life. His journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of never giving up, proving that even when the punchlines don’t land, the show must go on.
Krushna’s world is one where laughter is the melody, and every role he plays is a carefully crafted note in a symphony of joy. Whether it’s tickling our funny bones with his impeccable timing, transforming into unforgettable characters, or setting the stage ablaze with his energy, he remains a beacon of entertainment. As we sign off, one thing is certain—Krushna Abhishek doesn’t just perform; he leaves a piece of himself in every joke, every act, and every heart he touches.
So, here’s to more laughter, more gags, and more moments of pure joy from the man who reminds us that life, no matter how challenging, is best lived with a hearty dose of humor. Until next time, keep smiling and, as Krushna might say, “Ab bas, has lo!”