Is it difficult to make people laugh?
Not at all. I find a little tickle usually does the trick.
How do you develop your acts? What’s the inspiration?
I draw my inspiration from life experience. 99% of subjects I talk about are things I’ve seen or experienced myself and my point of view on the same.
What did you do with your first pay cheque?
I bought my father a pair of shoes.
Unlike salaried people, celebrities such as artists and film stars do not have a regular or fixed source of income or a fixed retirement age. Given the uncertainty in your source of income, what are the challenges in managing finances?
My regular expenditure is pretty low so managing finances are not a problem. However, celebrities who have high regular expenses need to estimate whether the earnings they have accumulated can finance their standard of living for the duration they need, based on expected future income and expenditure. If not, they need to (1) Lower their regular expenditure; or (2) Prepare for a life that is going to suck at some point; or (3) Plan to die when the money runs out!
Have you invested in any stocks, mutual funds or insurance? Any experience you can share with us?
No. They are my secrets!
Who advises you on money? Do you take the help of a financial advisor?
On important decisions like where to invest my hard earned money, I consult my pet cat. Although my financial advisor would not be very happy if he heard that I called him that.
Which is the best investment you have made till now?
Time spent with family and friends.
Any investment that you repent making?
I was married once. But I’ve already paid my dues for that!
Are you a saver or spender?
My needs are pretty basic and I lead a reasonably simple life, so my wants are limited as well. Therefore I’d have to go with saver.
Where are you performing next?
I’m performing in Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad and Kolkata in January. My new show 'Naked' will be premiered in the prestigious Soho Theatre on 20th February. Besides, I have been invited by Harvard Business School to speak at the India Conference at Harvard University in February.
If not a stand-up comedian, you would be...
Better equipped to answer your questions about finance!
