EXCLUSIVE: Standup comedian Gauri B believes comedy has the power to break barriers; says, “The goal isn’t to shock or divide”

Gauri is an emerging stand-up comedian who has taken the internet by storm. She performs to sold-out crowds in cities like Berlin, London, and New York. Originally from India and now based in Berlin, Gauri B has a keen understanding of dark humour’s nuances and comedy. In an interview with the Bollywood Bubble, standup comedian Gauri B believes comedy has the power to break barriers.

Gauri B on her career in comedy after doing architecture

Your transition from a career in architecture to stand-up comedy is a bold and unconventional move. What inspired you to take this leap, and how has your background as an architect influenced your comedic storytelling?

Gauri B boldly confronts societal norms and challenges the status quo as a female in comedy.”You know, architecture taught me how to plan, structure, and build—and comedy is surprisingly similar. You’re just building laughter instead of buildings! I loved architecture, but there came a point where I realized my true passion was in telling stories and making people laugh. The leap wasn’t easy, but the skills from architecture helped. I approach my sets like designing a blueprint: start strong, create intrigue, and leave them with something memorable. Life’s too short not to chase what makes your heart sing—and for me, that’s comedy.”

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Having performed in over 15 countries as a stand-up comedian, how do you adapt your humour to connect with audiences from diverse cultural backgrounds?

Gauri is committed to delivering her material with unmatched charisma and sharp wit. “Performing across different countries has been one of the most exciting parts of my journey. People always ask, ‘How do you make so many different audiences laugh?’ My answer is simple: human emotion is universal. Sure, I adapt to local cultures, tweak references, and sometimes learn a joke or two in the local language. But at the heart of it, we all connect over shared human experiences—love, family, awkward moments. It’s about finding those common threads and weaving them into something everyone can relate to.”

You’ve been breaking barriers as a female comedian in a male-dominated industry. What challenges have you faced along the way, and what does it mean to you to be a role model for aspiring women comedians?

Gauri possesses a unique talent for addressing morbid subjects. She said, “Being a woman in comedy has its challenges, no doubt. But the times are changing, and I’m proud to be part of that change. I believe in letting the work speak for itself. Comedy isn’t about being a “female comedian” or a “male comedian”; it’s about being funny. The stage is big enough for everyone—especially those who have a story to tell.”

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What are your views on comedians receiving backlash like Samay Raina or being arrested like Munawar Faruqui for their remark? Do you think India is not widely open to taking jokes as jokes, or do you think there should be some limits?

Gauri B skillfully infuses them with powerful punchlines. She said, “Ah, comedy—where one person’s joke is another person’s headline! I think as comedians, our goal is never to hurt but to entertain and provoke thought. Comedy is an art form—it’s meant to entertain, make you think, and sometimes even challenge perspectives. Humour has always been a way to deal with uncomfortable truths. Freedom of speech is the cornerstone of any vibrant society. Comedy thrives on this freedom because it’s about holding up a mirror to life, often with a little exaggeration or absurdity thrown in.”

Further adding, “As an audience, it’s important to approach comedy with an understanding that it’s not meant to be taken literally. A joke is a lens, not a declaration. When we take jokes personally or interpret them literally, we miss the bigger picture. It’s not about laughing at someone; it’s about laughing with each other and finding common ground in our shared imperfections. Learning to appreciate the nuance is key. I am not aware of any details of the particular incidents you are talking about, however, generally speaking, we comedians have a responsibility to be mindful.”

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The comedian concluded, “Humour should punch up, not down. It should challenge power and privilege rather than mock vulnerability. But for that to work, society needs to give comedians the space to experiment, take risks, and yes, even make mistakes. If every punchline is scrutinized through a literal lens, we risk stifling creativity and losing an important platform for social commentary.”

Alongside comedians like Vir Das, who has recently hosted the International Emmy Awards, you’ve gained significant global recognition. What do you think sets Indian comedians apart on the international stage, and what advice would you give to others aiming for a similar global impact?

Gauri B is on her way to becoming a household name in the comedy world. “Indian comedians are taking the world by storm, and I think it’s because we bring such a unique perspective. We have a wealth of stories, a rich cultural heritage, and a knack for finding humour in the smallest things. I feel Indians are naturally funny, I have been to so many countries and humour is not such an integral part of every nation’s identity, as much as it is in India. It’s part of who we are and how we connect. Comedy is about offering your unique point of view, and Indian comedians do that brilliantly. My advice to anyone looking to go global? Be authentic. Don’t try to mimic; lean into who you are. There’s a world out there waiting to hear your story.”

We have seen your stand-up comedy sets, which include you talking about LGBTQIA+ community, the Holocaust, racism, relationships and more. Do you face backlash for the same on social media? How do you deal with it?

With over 200k followers on Instagram, Gauri B is a rising female comedian.“Talking about topics like the LGBTQI+ community, racism, or cultural issues in my comedy is about starting important conversations and shining a light on stories that matter. Comedy has the power to break barriers and foster empathy, and I take that responsibility seriously. My shows aim to be inclusive, queer-friendly spaces where minorities feel seen, heard, and valued. The goal isn’t to shock or divide; it’s to bring people together through laughter and understanding. I approach these topics with care, humour, and a genuine desire to spark dialogue.”

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She added, “For me, comedy is about connection—and when even one person feels represented or validated through my work, it’s all worth it. Any backlash on sensitive topics is a reminder that these conversations are necessary. I try to channel my energy into creating more inclusive content, supporting minorities, and empowering voices that need to be heard. I believe comedy isn’t just about cracking jokes—it’s about cracking open minds and hearts.”

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