From Engineer to Comedian
Rohan Gujral, one of India’s rising stand-up comedians, sat down with host Kabir ‘Vani’ Zariwala to share how he left a secure engineering path and high-paying corporate job to pursue comedy. What started as a spark in college soon became a life-changing decision.
Family’s Reaction to Comedy
Like many Indian parents, Rohan’s family was initially skeptical. His father was supportive, but his mother only learned of his decision through a text message. At first, comedy seemed like a hobby—but winning competitions and gaining recognition on Comicstaan changed everything.
The Comicstaan Breakthrough
Within just 11 months of performing, Rohan made it onto Comicstaan, one of the biggest platforms for Indian comedians. Competing with more experienced peers, he quickly proved his talent through sketch rounds and improvisation, cementing his place in the comedy scene.
Finding Inspiration in Global Comedy
Rohan grew up admiring Western comedians like Chris Rock, Kevin Hart, George Carlin, and Jerry Seinfeld. He absorbed their craft, style, and presence, realizing comedy could be a legitimate, global career path.
Meditation and Spiritual Practice
Interestingly, Rohan credits Transcendental Meditation (TM) for keeping him grounded. Inspired by Jerry Seinfeld’s practice, he began meditating regularly, finding it vital for creativity and mental balance. For him, spirituality means peace of mind and clarity—both essential on stage and off.
Content Creation & Digital Age
Beyond live shows, Rohan has built a strong online presence with viral reels, especially his witty “rating series”. He believes digital content is crucial but warns creators to stay mindful of distractions and comparison. For him, balance comes from focusing on the craft first, then content.
Lessons from the Stage
Rohan openly shared the struggles of live performances—from awkward corporate gigs to experimental open mics that fall flat. His key insight: comedy is all about energy, presence, and honesty. The audience mirrors a comedian’s confidence, making mindset as important as material.
Dreams and Future Plans
Looking ahead, Rohan hopes to continue touring, expand his solo shows, and one day share the stage or room with global legends like Dave Chappelle and Jerry Seinfeld. For him, every performance is both a challenge and a joy.
FAQ
Q: How did Rohan Gujral start his comedy career?
A: He began in college with competitions, then quit his engineering job to pursue stand-up full time.
Q: What was his big break?
A: Being selected for Comicstaan just 11 months into comedy.
Q: How do his parents feel now?
A: They are supportive and proud after seeing his success.
Q: Does he practice spirituality?
A: Yes, he practices Transcendental Meditation daily to maintain balance.
Q: What advice does he give to young comedians?
A: Be fearless, experiment, and remember the audience reflects your energy.
Closing Thoughts
Rohan Gujral’s journey proves that following your passion, even against the odds, can open doors to joy, growth, and global recognition. His story is a reminder that risk, resilience, and a touch of humor can change everything.
You can listen to the full conversation with Rohan Gujral on the Kabir Vani Podcast, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Prime Music.
