What does it mean to be a Dalit comic in the Indian standup comedy scene?

Updated On: 25 November, 2022 05:32 PM IST | Mumbai | Sarasvati T

‘Blue material’, a standup comedy set led by all Dalit comedians has gained attention for talking about the much-silenced subject of caste in their jokes. The creators open up about their process, dilemmas and criticisms they aim to address

Listen to this article :

Manaal Patil, Ankur Tangade, Ravi Gaikwad. Image courtesy: Manaal Patil

“We wanted to create our own space, where Dalit comics can get enough stage time to explore who they are and express themselves,” says Manaal Patil, curator of Blue Material, a standup comedy set led by all Dalit comedians. “Blue Material gives us an incentive and freedom to think about Dalit comedy and we could develop our jokes in-sync with our thoughts,” he adds.

Not many had watched a Dalit comedian talk openly about their identity on stage and challenge the upper-caste narrative on reservation with a comedic brilliance until 2020, when Manaal Patil’s short clip surfaced on Twitter and was appreciated by many. This was also at a time when the platform was hosting heated debates on caste in Indian comedy and some of India’s well-known comedians were called out for the sexist and casteist nature of their jokes.

Buy now to read the full story.

For just ₹/-

Already a member? Login

For any queries please contact us: E-mail: support@mid-day.com

Latest Photos

Latest Videos

Latest Web Stories

Mid-Day Fast

;

Home / Lifestyle / Culture / Article / What does it mean to be a Dalit comic in the Indian standup comedy scene?