Zakir Khan becomes the first Asian comic to play the Royal Albert Hall
20 minute ovation after stand-up fills the venue with his show in Hindi
Indian comedian Zakir Khan has become the first Asian comedian to perform a solo show at London’s Royal Albert Hall.
His show Mannpasand was performed in Hindi to more than 5,000 fans in the historic venue, earning him a reported 20-minute standing ovation following his three-hour performance.
The comic said: ‘I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to perform at this historic hall. which has played host to world-famous artists over the years.
‘It feels almost surreal to see my artistic dream turn into reality. In what has become one of the most significant shows of my life, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to [promoters] OML for their unwavering support in facilitating this grand occasion.’
Gunjan Arya, chief executive of OML (Only Much Louder), said: ‘This truly marks a historic moment for Indian entertainment on a global stage. Zakir Khan’s sold-out performance at the Royal Albert Hall is not just a triumph for all of us at OML but a significant milestone for the entire industry.’
Support came from British-Indian comic Sindhu Vee, and the show was co-promoted by the Soho Theatre, which has been instrumental in bringing a number of Indian comedians to the UK, and AEG Presents.
Georgie Donnelly, AEG Presents' head of comedy in the UK, said: 'What a wonderful moment in history and Zakir rightly received a staggering 20-minute standing ovation at the end of his show.
'We’d like to thank him and his incredible fans for what was a sold-out show and we hope it moves the industry forwards in terms of encouraging more diversity in major comedy shows in the UK.'
Khan’s rise to fame began in 2012 when he was named India’s Best Stand Up in a competition organised by Comedy Central and has since recorded three stand-up specials and starred in the Amazon Prime Video sitcom Chacha Vidhayak Hai Humare.
Published: 13 Oct 2023
