July 31, 2025

Papa CJ, an acclaimed stand-up comedian known for his sharp tongue and global appeal, is back with his tour 'Still Standing Up.' As he performs in Kolkata, he reflects on his roots in the city, expressing how it has shaped his comedic voice. 'Kolkata is one of the most beautifully promiscuous cities in the world,' he exclaims, relishing the freedom it gives him to be playful and mischievous. Having grown up in Kolkata during the '80s, Papa CJ remembers a time when 18-hour power cuts were a common occurrence. 'Humour wasn’t a luxury—it was survival,' he states. This experience fostered his comic instinct. The struggles of the time, including managing power supply with an inverter that allowed either two fans or one light, made it necessary for him to laugh through the absurdity. Today, he proudly embraces his connection to Kolkata. 'I lived in Calcutta for 19 years, and my heart belongs to the city,' he shares. The warmth and resilience of the people who grew up here resonate with him deeply; there’s an immediate bond with anyone who has shared similar childhood experiences in the city. Papa CJ is celebrated as one of India's earliest stand-up pioneers. Despite being nostalgic about his journey, he acknowledges the evolution of comedy into a thriving industry. 'When I launched the open mic scene in Delhi in 2009, we were a tight group of performers. Now it’s a content economy,' he observes, noting the internet’s role in offering various platforms for emerging comics. Nevertheless, his love for live stand-up remains steadfast. 'That’s where I thrive,' he emphasizes. As he embarks on this new tour after a long hiatus from public performances, Papa CJ asserts his commitment to delivering quality comedy. 'This tour is just my way of telling the audience that I’m still here. Still slick. Still funny. Still savage,' he declares confidently. Reflecting on his bold comedic approach, he addresses his controversial jokes from the past, particularly one involving the Kama Sutra. 'That joke wasn’t to push boundaries; it was a love letter to India,' he clarifies. Acknowledging the challenges of being an Indian comic in the UK back in 2004, he aimed to represent his culture with pride rather than shock value. Rather than succumbing to cancel culture, Papa CJ emphasizes the importance of live performances where audiences can feel his intent. 'I’ll tease, I’ll embarrass, but never hurt,' he reassures, maintaining a line that allows him to engage freely with his audience. His objective is clear: to spread happiness through laughter. 'They may not remember my name, but they remembered the Indian who made them laugh,' he concludes. Papa CJ has made history as a headliner for prominent comedy events like Just For Laughs and Melbourne Comedy Festival, marking many milestones as an Indian comic. While earlier he felt the weight of representing his homeland, he now focuses on the essence of his performances. 'If they walk out happier than they walked in, I’ve done my job,' he concludes. As he takes the stage, Papa CJ encapsulates the spirit of Kolkata—a city that has nurtured his talent, tested his humor, and continues to inspire. His tour, 'Still Standing Up,' embodies not only his journey in comedy but also a heartwarming return to his roots.

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Tags: Papa cj, Indian comedy, Stand-up, Kolkata, Comedy tour,