Veteran comedian Kiku Sharda, loved for his hilarious avatars over the years, is back with a new film titled Free Entry, whose announcement was made on Saturday, 24th May 2025. The film, directed by Akash Barthwal and Anil Goyal, brings together a diverse cast including Saanand Verma, Isha Malviya, Siddharth Sagar, Sharman Joshi, Ayana Khan, and Shreya Kalra. But while the announcement was filled with excitement, Kiku didn’t shy away from addressing the elephant in the comedy room.
Speaking candidly to the media during the press meet about the movie's title announcement, Kiku reflected on the controversies that have recently rocked the stand-up comedy circuit. From the abrupt shutdown of India’s Got Latent, a reality comedy show hosted by Samay Raina, due to bizarre comments made by guest Ranveer Allahabadia, to Kunal Kamra’s repeated brushes with backlash for his political satire – the world of comedy has become a minefield of offence and outrage.
When asked his views on this shifting landscape, Kiku responded with a mix of nostalgia and concern. “I really appreciate how comedy has evolved into a full-fledged career. When I began, it was simply about making people laugh. Now, ‘stand-up comedian’ is an entire profession. But with that growth, there’s been a shift in tone – and not always for the better.”
Kiku highlighted a key issue that he believes today’s generation is missing: the distinction between different types of humour. “Back in the day, there was a clear line between family-friendly jokes and adult or double-meaning humour. That line is blurred now. In a close group of friends, a risqué joke might land well. But when it becomes mainstream, it can lose its charm – or worse, cause harm,” he said.
He added, “There’s a difference between making people laugh and making fun of sensitive things. Today, everything is taken so lightly. We need to revisit the idea of comedy that brings families together.”
Kiku’s heartfelt perspective offers a timely reminder of the roots of Indian humour – where laughter wasn’t just entertainment, but a shared, inclusive experience. As the industry races forward with digital content, open mics, and edgier scripts, it’s voices like his that call for a much-needed pause.
As Free Entry gears up to tickle the audience’s funny bones, Kiku Sharda’s reflections offer more than just a nostalgic glance—they serve as a gentle nudge to the comedy fraternity and viewers alike. In a time where shock value often overshadows substance, his message is clear: comedy should evolve, yes, but not at the cost of inclusivity or sensitivity. With experienced voices like his steering the conversation, perhaps the laughter industry can find a way back to humour that entertains without offending—where every joke lands, and every audience feels seen.