Hello, Sakht launda institute students,
In Indian stand-up comedy, few names ring as true as that of Zakir Khan. His trademark line, “Sakht Launda” (The Tough Guy), has helped Zakir carve a niche for himself in the comedy world, making him the voice of the common Indian.
This is not just humor to get a laugh; there’s a way it reflects the realities of middle-class life, relationships, the trials of adulthood. In this article we are going to discuss about the life, career of Zakir Khan and how he became one of the most loved comedian in India.
So, let’s get you a cup of chai, sit back and enter the realm of Zakir Khan.
Who is Zakir Khan?
Zakik Khan was born into a middle class Muslim family on 20th August 1987 in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. His father worked for the government, and his mother was a homemaker. Zakir's childhood was ably blessed with family warmth, especially from two older sisters who were encouraging to foster his artistic inclination.
Though Zakir had always loved acting and comedy, his parents wanted him to have a more “stable” career. So, like many Indian kids, he chose the engineering route, and got a degree in Civil Engineering. His heart was always in comedy, though. He started doing local open mic in college and realised his ability to make people laugh.
After just a year of working for an MNC, Zakir realized that corporate life was not meant for him. He made the leap in 2012, quitting his job and relocating to Mumbai to pursue his dream of becoming a comedian. He had no way of knowing that it was going to be a life-changing decision.
Also read: Zakir Khan: Father's Day Quotes "Papa Yaar"
Career—From Struggles to Breakthroughs
Zakir’s life in Mumbai was not a bed of roses. As with most would-be comedians, he began at lower levels, playing local comedy clubs and open mics. His major breakthrough came in 2014, when he competed on Comedy Central’s “India’s Best Stand-Up Comedian.” Despite not winning the competition itself, his quirky style and relatable content endeared him to the audiences.
Over the following years, Zakir sharpened his skills performing at comedy clubs and on tour throughout India. He was known for his jokes about the middle-class experience, relationships and society that resonated with the masses. He appeared on popular shows such as “Comedy Nights with Kapil”, which added to his fame.
Rise to Stardom
The actual turning point in Zakir’s career was 2017, when his first solo comedy special, “Haq Se Single,” was released on Amazon Prime Video. The special was a bonanza, getting rave reviews with its brutally honest humor and touching storytelling. It was Zakir’s knack for incorporating personal stories into his acts that made him a household name.
After the success of this, Zakir came up with more comedy specials, such as “Kaksha Gyarvi” and “Tathastu”, both were well received. He even dabbled in acting, including a role in the 2020 Netflix movie “House Arrest.”
Today, Zakir ranks among the most recognizable faces of Indian comedy. He has conducted sold-out shows all over India and around the world, and his YouTube channel has more than 7.56 million subscribers. He also has a loyal following for his podcast, “Kaksha Gyarvi,” in which he covers subjects as varied as society, religion and relationships.
Zakir Khan Famous Quotes
‘Bhai tumhara warrior hai’. (Your brother is a warrior.)
‘ek tarfa pyaar bhi relationship hoti hai’, (unrequited, one-sided love is also a relationship).
‘K***** ki tarah rona band kar’. (‘Stop crying like a b***h’!)
‘There is no villain, but YOU are a hero,’
‘Ladkiyan roti kyun rehti hain? Woh ro rahi hai kyunki TU ch****a hai’. (You ask why women are always crying? She’s crying because YOU are a jerk.)
‘We’re a generation of broken hearts and broken people’.
Must read: Zakir Khan Quotes: That Will Sakht You Forever
Personal Life
However, despite his fame, Zakir Khan is a reclusive individual. In 2018, he married his long time girlfriend in a small ceremony with close friends and family. He doesn't talk much about his wife in public, but his comedy frequently references the funny stuff that comes with marriage, so there's a look at where his life experience falls.
Zakir is a family man first and foremost. He is very close to his parents and brothers, who travel with him on his tours. His family, he says, has always been right there to keep him grounded as his career has taken off.
Outside of his performing career, Zakir likes to listen to ghazals, read poetry and swim. He is also a keen watcher of cricket and soccer and enjoys delving into street food joints. It’s worth noting that Zakir doesn’t smoke or drink — not a common thing in show business.
Fun Facts About Zakir Khan
- Animal Lover: Zakir has a cat Zomato named after his love for food.
- Shoe Obsession: He loves Converse shoes, and has them in different colors.
- Mimicry Artist: Zakir is a brilliant mimic and he mimics Bollywood actors in his shows.
- Street Shopper: Street shopping and unique finds are his inspiration.
- Teetotaler: Zakir, unlike many in his field, doesn’t drink or smoke.
Why The Youth, Jonathan Edwards
Like any great comedian, Zakir’s comedy is about everyday life. Whether he’s discussing the challenges of singledom, the travails of adulting or the eccentricities of Indian families, his jokes feel relatable, counter and colorful. What makes him special is that he finds humor in the mundane.
Besides, Zakir’s evolution from small town boy to comedy superstar is inspiring. He is proof that with passion, hard work and a pinch of courage, you can make your dreams come true.
Also read: Zakir Khan Shayari – You’ll Love It
Zakir Khan Social Media
Conclusion
Zakir Khan is not merely a comic; he is a raconteur who has the knack of weaving mundane events and incidences into mirth. His overnight popularity is a reflection of his skills, determination, and the ability to engage instantly with people at an emotional level.
Traveling to various countries and continents, performing to wide-ranging audiences, Zakir, despite becoming the icon he is today, believes institutions need not be stuffy. With sold-out shows, millions of followers and a myriad of achievements, Zakir Khan is indeed one of the brightest stars on the Indian comedy circuit.
So the next time you’re teetering on the edge of feeling overwhelmed by life’s travails, remember what Zakir said: “Sakht Launda hoon, emotional toh hoon hi” (I’m a tough guy, but I’m emotional too).
if you need a good chuckle, check out WeWishes for more inspirational and entertaining stories.
