Comedian Zakir Khan—the sakth launda from Indore— is back on your screens as the lead actor of web series Chacha Vidhayak Hain Humare. After making audiences laugh for two seasons with this political comedy show on Prime Video, he returns as Ronny bhaiya in Season 3 hosted on Amazon miniTV, Amazon’s free video streaming service.
Khan is not only the lead actor in this multi-season franchise but has also co-written it along with Gopal Datt.
A peak into Season 3: Ronny who considers himself a jann neta finds that chacha ji (Ashiwini played by Abhimanyu Singh), the MLA firmly insists he steer clear of politics. But despite his best efforts, Ronny's fate repeatedly intertwines with Ashwini's, resulting in a series of hilarious incidents and crazy encounters.
We caught up with Khan to learn more about his experience of writing and acting in Chacha Vidhayak Hain Humare. Edited excerpts.
Tell us about the show and what’s happening in Ronny’s life in Season 3 of Chacha Vidhayak Hain Humare?
Returning with Season 3 of Chacha Vidhayak Hain Humare feels like homecoming, the love and support we've received from fans for the first 2 seasons has been truly humbling. The new season is also going to be very interesting for viewers and Ronny is going to take the most unexpected and atrocious step of his career towards the season finale.
From standup shows to a multi-season franchise where you are the writer and main lead, how has the journey been for you?
The journey has been great and I’m very grateful for all the opportunities that I’ve got. It’s been a journey full of learning—I’ve learnt how to create, write and act. And doing all of this together might take a toll on me while I tour for my shows, but the learning is far greater than the pain I may endure in the process. So that learning is what I like to focus on when I look at my journey.
This show also has a spin of political satire. How is the writing process for this genre different from other shows or specials that you write?
It’s not just about writing political satire but it’s more about thinking what goes behind the scenes of basic grassroot politics in a country. Ronny’s journey in the show is not about someone who wants to become a Prime Minister but it is about someone seeking for a ticket to become the corporator of the city municipality. The writing is directed towards people who think that this is out of their reach, ability and resources, and it is meant to inspire them.
You’ve talked about how with this show you wanted to tell a story that you have lived. Can you tell us what real life anecdotes have shaped Season 3?
I was an unemployed adult for almost 4 years of my life and my experiences from that time is what I have tried to portray in Season 3. Previously, I showcased the struggles I faced when I worked in an office setting. In the first season, I depicted the days from my college life—so we’ve still been in the realm of Zakir Khan when creating this show.
Can you share a piece of advice for creators or comedians who are just starting out in this industry?
Don’t seek advice from senior comedians. Just be on stage and perform as much as you can.
You became an overnight success and you continue to churn out successful specials all the time. With all the adulation, how do you make sure you stay grounded and focused on the next title?
There are a few things: staying connected to your roots, being accessible to your family and friends, not wasting time in fan groups, not surrounding yourself with yes-men and not living the high that cheerleading brings you.
What is on your miniTV watchlist?
I’m waiting for Gutar Gu’s new season and also looking forward to watching the next batch of Korean dubbed shows that miniTV launches.
What was your last purchase on Amazon.in?
I ordered a clothing rack to dry my clothes but I accidentally ordered an incorrect size so I will be getting that exchanged.
Season 3 of Chacha Vidhayak Hain Humare is now available to stream on Amazon miniTV.
