Raju Srivastava: From driving an auto to becoming comedy king, here’s a look at his inspiring journey

Raju Srivastava is one of the most loved comedians in India. Raju is currently under treatment in AIIMS, Delhi. The ace comedian, who has entertained millions for years, suffered a heart attack while working out in a gym. Raju’s brother Deepu Srivastava recently informed that Raju is recovering under the care of best medical professionals and ‘will soon come back winning the battle and will entertain everyone with his comedy’. Fans are praying for his speedy recovery.

Over the years, Raju has tickled the funny bones of everyone. However, his journey wasn’t an easy ride. The ace comedian’s journey has its ups and downs. Raju was born in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh on 25 December 1963. His father Ramesh Chandra Srivastava, known as Balai Kaka, was a famous Hindi Poet.

 

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School days: Raju started mimicry as a young school boy. In an interview with Dr Vivek Bindra, Raju recalled how his school principal supported him. He had said, “While others would make fun of my mimicry, my principal really supported me. I was also called to the mohalla (local) cricket matches for my commentary. I wouldn’t say much about the shots being played, but spoke about the players, as I knew them personally. That is what attracted people to my style.” During his initial days, he also tried to propose to a girl using mimicry.

Came to Mumbai: The ace comedian then came to Mumbai to try his luck in the industry. According to a report in Zee News, when he came to Mumbai, he drove an auto for some time to make ends meet. Reportedly, he would also do stand-up comedy shows for Rs 50.

 

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The Great Indian Laughter Challenge: In 2005, Raju participated in The Great Indian Laughter Challenge. He didn’t win the show but emerged as a second runner-up. Later, things changed as he gained immense popularity and there was no looking back for him. With his comedic timing and hilarious jokes, Raju won many hearts.

 

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Earlier, talking about his love for comedy, Raju told Newsd, “Comedy is the hardest genre of all. Making someone laugh is tough. But if a person can do comedy then performing in other genres is not difficult at all. This is what I have experienced. Even today I get offers to act and I happily take them.”

Raju made his acting debut with Anil Kapoor starrer Tezaab. He has appeared in films like Salman Khan starrer Maine Pyar Kiya, Shah Rukh Khan starrer Baazigar and Aamdani Atthani Kharcha Rupaiya among others.

He has also been a part of shows like Bigg Boss 3, Comedy Ka Maha Muqabla, Nach Baliye season 6, The Indian Mazaak League and more.

For the uninitiated, Raju is the chairman of the Film Development Council of Uttar Pradesh.

 

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Also Read: Raju Srivastava is a fighter and prayers of fans are being heard, says brother Deepu

Mamta Naik

Content Writer