"One big challenge has been managing expectations—both my own and those of others."
I think the transition had a lot to do with hitting a point in my life where I wanted to do something meaningful and joyful. After about two decades in the corporate world, I realized I was yearning for a change—something that didn’t just pay the bills but also fed my soul. I’d always been passionate about storytelling and humor, so comedy felt like a natural next step.
Q. How did you feel when you first decided to leave the corporate world? That must’ve been a big leap.
Absolutely! It was both terrifying and thrilling. It felt like standing at the edge of a cliff with no idea what the view on the other side would be. I knew I was risking comfort and stability, but at that point, I’d rather risk it than look back and regret not giving it a try.
Q. So, what was your first stand-up experience like?
My first stand-up show was a mix of excitement and nerves. I remember standing backstage, running over my jokes in my head a hundred times. When I finally went on stage, though, it felt surreal. As I started getting laughs, it was like, "Wow, this is real. This can actually work!" It’s a feeling I still chase every time I perform.
Q. And now you’re one of the most popular stand-up comedians in India! What inspires your material?
A lot of my material comes from life experiences. I find that the everyday observations, the nuances of relationships, and even corporate life provide a goldmine of comedy. I enjoy picking up on things that people may think but don’t necessarily say out loud—it’s like I’m giving their thoughts a voice and making them laugh about it.
Absolutely! It was both terrifying and thrilling. It felt like standing at the edge of a cliff with no idea what the view on the other side would be. I knew I was risking comfort and stability, but at that point, I’d rather risk it than look back and regret not giving it a try.
Q. So, what was your first stand-up experience like?
My first stand-up show was a mix of excitement and nerves. I remember standing backstage, running over my jokes in my head a hundred times. When I finally went on stage, though, it felt surreal. As I started getting laughs, it was like, "Wow, this is real. This can actually work!" It’s a feeling I still chase every time I perform.
Q. And now you’re one of the most popular stand-up comedians in India! What inspires your material?
A lot of my material comes from life experiences. I find that the everyday observations, the nuances of relationships, and even corporate life provide a goldmine of comedy. I enjoy picking up on things that people may think but don’t necessarily say out loud—it’s like I’m giving their thoughts a voice and making them laugh about it.
Q. Your comedy often touches on family life, relationships, and everyday struggles. How do people close to you react to that?
Oh, they’ve gotten used to it by now! My family is supportive, and they understand that the comedy is drawn from a place of honesty. But yeah, sometimes they’ll joke, saying, "Are you going to put this in your next set?" It’s all in good fun, though.
Q. You’ve become a mentor for budding comedians. What advice would you give to someone just starting out?
I’d say don’t overthink it—just go for it! Stand-up is all about authenticity and timing. Find your voice, tell your story, and most importantly, keep practicing. It’s not an easy journey; rejection is a part of it, but every gig teaches you something.
Q. What would you say has been the biggest challenge in your career so far?
One big challenge has been managing expectations—both my own and those of others. There’s a constant urge to put out new, exciting content, and that can sometimes lead to pressure. I’ve had to remind myself to keep the joy alive, not let it feel like a race. Staying true to myself, finding new ways to express my thoughts, and always trying to improve—that’s my ongoing challenge.
Q. So true. And where do you see comedy going in India?
I think Indian comedy is evolving beautifully. Audiences here are becoming more open to different forms of humor, and that’s allowing comedians to be more experimental and authentic. There’s space for so many voices—regional, female comedians, those touching on social issues. I’m optimistic that Indian comedy will only grow from here.
Q. Any memorable fan interactions that stand out?
Oh, they’ve gotten used to it by now! My family is supportive, and they understand that the comedy is drawn from a place of honesty. But yeah, sometimes they’ll joke, saying, "Are you going to put this in your next set?" It’s all in good fun, though.
Q. You’ve become a mentor for budding comedians. What advice would you give to someone just starting out?
I’d say don’t overthink it—just go for it! Stand-up is all about authenticity and timing. Find your voice, tell your story, and most importantly, keep practicing. It’s not an easy journey; rejection is a part of it, but every gig teaches you something.
Q. What would you say has been the biggest challenge in your career so far?
One big challenge has been managing expectations—both my own and those of others. There’s a constant urge to put out new, exciting content, and that can sometimes lead to pressure. I’ve had to remind myself to keep the joy alive, not let it feel like a race. Staying true to myself, finding new ways to express my thoughts, and always trying to improve—that’s my ongoing challenge.
Q. So true. And where do you see comedy going in India?
I think Indian comedy is evolving beautifully. Audiences here are becoming more open to different forms of humor, and that’s allowing comedians to be more experimental and authentic. There’s space for so many voices—regional, female comedians, those touching on social issues. I’m optimistic that Indian comedy will only grow from here.
Q. Any memorable fan interactions that stand out?
So many! Once after a show, this gentleman came up to me and said, “Your show helped me forget my worries, even if just for an hour.” That really touched me. Moments like those remind me why I’m doing this—to make people laugh, to bring some relief.
BIO :
Anshu Mor is a celebrated Indian comedian and storyteller who left a high-powered corporate career to pursue his passion for stand-up. Known for his relatable humor around family, relationships, and life’s quirks, he quickly rose to fame. His unique blend of wit and insight has made him a beloved figure in India’s comedy scene, inspiring many aspiring comedians.
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