Who are the true comedians ?

Some objectionable videos from the programmes of comedian Pranit More were widely circulated on social media. Pranit, along with another young man and a young medical practitioner, came under criticism. Thereafter, pretending to be frightened and portraying repentance, all of them went through the formalities of a public apology. Pranit even made a pathetic attempt to gain sympathy by saying, ‘How am I responsible for all this’, ‘Give me one chance and I will prove that I can become a good person.’

Those who are fond of such comedians will naturally feel that giving him one chance is necessary. After Pranit, news spread about yet another comedian. An artiste named Madhur Virli had cracked jokes on a sensitive subject such as rape. He too faced criticism. Similar incidents had occurred last year in connection with the programmes of Ranveer Allahbadia and Samay Raina. As a result, restrictions were imposed on their programmes for a few months. Once everything gradually returned to normal, the activities resumed. Something similar will likely happen in Pranit’s case as well.

Not all modern comedians today can be lumped together; however, in the name of popularity, some indulge in excessive obscenity. These incidents make it necessary to discuss the tradition of humour in Indian languages, especially Marathi, the changed face of humour in today’s times and the changing tastes of society.

Humour that reflects the beauty of human life

Maharashtra has been blessed with a rich tradition of humour. Humour in Marathi literature and culture not only entertained people, but also served as a medium for social awakening and introspection. It softened the sorrows of life with a gentle touch.

Among Marathi literary figures, PL Deshpande, DM Mirasdar and CV Joshi gave humour a cultured and thought-provoking form. Their writings made millions of readers laugh heartily. Even today, while reading their works, readers smile through their incisive humour and derive immense enjoyment from it.

PL Deshpande’s writings were satirical; yet, he never insulted anyone. Through his stories, DM Mirasdar depicted the amusing aspects of rural life; but, always with respect for people. Through that laughter, he inspired people to think. When his humour was sprinkled upon the sorrows and struggles of life, it brought joy to readers’ minds.

These heroes of humour never had to resort to vulgar jokes to make people laugh, nor did they ever think of doing so. Without using obscenity, sexual innuendo or insulting language, they earned a permanent place in the hearts of Marathi readers. Even today, the mere mention of PL Deshpande brings a spontaneous smile to the face of a Marathi individual. This is the result of his pure humour. His humour contained keen observation and linguistic beauty. Therefore, his literature continues to be read with the same enthusiasm even today.

In his work ‘Apoorvai’ (Novelty), he remarked, ‘In reality, all papers are alike; but when ego gets attached to one, it becomes a certificate’. Through this sentence, he satirised society’s obsession with superficial prestige; yet, there was no obscenity in it. There was criticism, but no hatred towards individuals.

In ‘Vyakti Ani Valli’ (Meaning : Individuals and Eccentrics), PL Deshpande portrayed numerous characters. Here too, there is humour, but no obscenity; satire, but no bitterness. The speciality of his humour was that he did not ridicule individuals; rather, he showed that all of us possess such traits to some extent. Consequently, the reader laughs and simultaneously sees himself in the humour.

This is the richness of Marathi humour. Not a single word emerged from these literary figures that could tarnish this glorious tradition. They taught society to laugh wholeheartedly and preserved the legacy of humorous literature.

From humour to perversity

In today’s digital age, the standard of humour is deteriorating day by day. Humour has come to be equated with insult, perversity, abuse, obscenity and vulgarity. The language of humour has completely changed. The ability to understand the true essence of humour has almost vanished.

Nowadays, simple humour rarely makes anyone laugh; however, vulgar jokes instantly evoke what may be termed demonic pleasure. This represents the height of perversity. How wrong it is to descend to such levels merely for cheap popularity ! Having abandoned all sense of modesty and shame, many young people pay to attend such programmes. They eagerly wait for obscene jokes so that they can laugh. If one individual speaks with 70% obscenity, another tries to surpass him by pushing vulgarity to even greater extremes. And yes … educated are these (so-called) artisans of vulgarity !

The journey from education to righteous conduct can only be completed through the ladder of sanskars (Impr-essions on the subconscious mind). Without sanskars, even the highest educational qualifications lose their value. Such conduct brings disrepute on education. One shudders to think where such a generation of youth with a distorted mentality will lead the Nation. Therefore, such programmes should be banned throughout the country.

Preserve the true style of humour

The works of earlier writers and literary figures are gradually disappearing, and therefore the present generation is often unfamiliar even with their names. In their eyes, those who make everyone laugh through cheap jokes are considered true literary figures.

Society today needs writers who can teach that humour is a sensitive way of looking at human life. To cultivate a more mature understanding of humour, literary reading, public speaking, drama competitions and cultural activities should be organised in society.

True humour is that which holds a mirror before society, reduces stress and stimulates thought. Efforts should be made to improve the quality of humour without allowing its standards to decline. This will increase positivity, discrimination and sensitivity in society. To strengthen the rich tradition of humour, its true style must be preserved. Comedians should remember that they must not murder humour itself. Instead, they should strive to become true comedians.