'World we live in is touchy': Actor Vrajesh Hirjee on why comedians should self-censor

In the current climate, self-censorship in comedy may not be a bad idea, says actor Vrajesh Hirjee, a popular name across TV, radio, films, and theatre.Set to play a double role in director Mohit Takalkar's upcoming play "Dil Ka Haal Sune Dilwala" adapted from Sarah Ruhl's "Dead Man's Cellphone" in Delhi on May 16 and 17, Hirjee said although "offensive comedy" is a recognised sub-genre, today's increasingly "touchy" environment makes self-censorship a reluctant necessity for comedians."In terms of drawing a line... one of the sub-genres of comedy is offensive comedy. Now, if you're (audience) going to find something offensive, don't watch or leave. But having said that, it's a touchy world we live in. So the comedians should not go anywhere near areas which would harm the art on a larger scale. What are we going to prove really?"So, yes, self-censorship, at this point of time, in our existences might not be a bad idea and might be advised," Hirjee, known for his memorable roles in multiple super hits like "Golmaal" franchise, "Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mein" and "Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai", told PTI.On a question of growing attack on stand-up comedians in India, the actor, who briefly dipped his toes in the genre with Gujarati stand-up comedy shows such as "Lavari" and "Hirji Ni Marji", said many audience members are comfortable with such humour, but those who are not should not resort to violence.In recent years, comedians such as Vir Das, Kunal Kamra, Samay Raina and Munawar Faruqui have faced intense legal and political backlash over their material."From an audience perspective, there are people who are okay with this comedy. So, just because you are not, why are you calling 10 other people and saying, 'let’s break this space down'?"Starting his film career with "Such a Long Journey" in 1998, the 54-year-old has now completed nearly three decades of one himself -- across films, OTT, radio, TV and theatre -- moving fluidly across mediums with the identity of a "storyteller"."For me, it's not whether I'm on stage or the size of the camera, or whether it's a digital ad that I'm performing in, or whether I'm writing for advertising or whether I'm on radio behind the mic... I'm just telling the story."Even as a sports commentator, Pro Kabaddi League -- a Kabaddi game is a 40-minute game, but it's a 40-minute story. Even as an actor, I'm telling stories and it gives me great joy. I also sometimes think that I maybe became an actor because I'm an escapist. I want to be other people. Maybe I find that safer," he explained.With over 50 films and numerous TV shows to his credit, Hirjee also spoke about his fondness for reality television. He called his "Bigg Boss" experience the "wildest" and most eye-opening phase of his life, noting that it offered him deep and lasting insights into human behaviour.He also expressed an interest in joining the stunt-based reality show "Khatron Ke Khiladi"."I want to do 'Khatron Ke Khiladi'. I'm a scuba diver, I do a fair bit of diving. And I'm okay with heights and claustrophobia. So doing 'Khatron Ke Khiladi' will be fun," he added.Hirjee is currently busy with two OTT projects, a Gujarati film, and the much-anticipated next installment of "Golmaal"-- of which he shared that a significant portion of the film has already been shot, while some work is still pending."Dil Ka Haal Sune Dilwala" is the second production of the ongoing eighth season of Aadyam Theatre, an initiative by the Aditya Birla Group.The play will premiere here at Kamani Auditorium, with three shows across May 16 and 17 before coming to Mumbai for performances at Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir on May 30 and 31, and at Nehru Centre on July 25 and 26.