Comedian Samay Raina had one of the most popular shows on YouTube until February 2025. He created a talent show that allowed participants from across India to showcase their skills in front of a panel curated by him, with a chance to win lucrative prize money. Many new talents were discovered through the show. However, after an episode featuring Ranveer Allahbadia, aka BeerBiceps, on the panel, the show came to an abrupt end—reportedly due to a controversial question asked by him. Legal cases followed, and the show faced protests and public scrutiny. While all parties have now moved on, Raina has released his hour-long special Still Alive, where he addresses the controversy and what unfolded after the infamous episode premiered. Why did Samay not edit Ranveer's question? In his new special released on YouTube on Monday, Samay Raina addressed the big question on everyone’s mind—why didn’t he edit out the controversial question? He said, “Main tumhe maa ki kasam sach batata hoon. Uss episode mein BeerBiceps ne woh sawal 8 baar poocha tha. Aur iske alawa bhi kai anap-shanap sawal pooche the usne. Toh jab maine edit dekha, maine kaha, ‘Yeh toh bahut gandi baatein kari hain isne.’ (I swear, in that episode, BeerBiceps asked that question eight times. Apart from that, he asked a lot of rubbish questions. When I saw the edit, I realised he had said many obscene things.)” He added, “Chalo ek rakh deta hoon, baaki sab hata deta hoon. Toh mere POV se maine toh 99 percent keetanu maar diye the. (I thought I would keep one instance and remove the rest. From my point of view, I had eliminated 99 percent of the ‘germs’.)” When Samay broke down in front of his mother In the special, he also became emotional while speaking about his mother’s reaction after the controversy escalated. He shared that his mother video-called him when she heard about the issue, but he couldn’t gather the courage to face her and instead spoke over an audio call, pretending everything was fine. After their call, his mother contacted Balraj, Samay’s friend and owner of Habitat, and told him that Samay was not okay and needed support. Hearing this, Samay broke down. He later video-called his mother, and they both became emotional. Samay concluded by saying that he couldn’t have asked for a better ending to India’s Got Latent and hinted at a possible second season of the show.
08 April,2026 11:37 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAt the beginning of 2025, comedian Samay Raina was dominating the YouTube space with his show India's Got Latent. However, a single episode and a single question changed everything for Raina and his popular show. The show landed in legal trouble, with multiple FIRs against the comedian and his team, including panellist Ranveer Allahbadia (who made the controversial comment), and influencers Ashish Chanchlani and Apoorva Mukhija. A year later, Samay is gearing up for a new comedy special. He announced the same while revisiting his controversial episode. Samay Raina announces new special Still Alive On Sunday, Samay Raina took to Instagram and shared a video announcing his return with a new comedy special titled Still Alive. The announcement video featured how India's Got Latent began on June 14, 2024, had several successful videos, and gave a platform to several new talents. It also featured the clip where Ranveer asked the question that sparked backlash and the eventual downfall of the show. The clip then highlights the legal trouble faced by Samay, Apoorva, Ashish, and Ranveer Allahbadia. The video ends with him announcing his return with his new special. He captioned the post, "Let's talk now..." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Samay Raina (@maisamayhoon) Going by the announcement, it seems that Samay will be addressing the rise of his show, its downfall, and the legal battle that followed. Netizens took to the comment section to express their excitement for the show. Many commented that they had watched the show live and are looking forward for others to witness. Many expressed interest in hearing the controversy from Raina's point of view. About India's Got Latent controversy All about the controversy: Comedian Samay Raina’s YouTube show India’s Got Latent sparked major backlash after an episode featuring Ranveer Allahbadia included vulgar and offensive jokes, including one about incest and others mocking disabilities and regional groups. Multiple FIRs were filed under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita and IT Act, prompting Raina to delete the show’s videos and issue a public apology. The controversy led to cancelled shows, police questioning, and a Supreme Court directive for public apologies, reigniting debate over the limits of comedy and online content regulation in India.
06 April,2026 01:39 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIndian playback singer Shreya Ghoshal, along with her mother Shamishtha Ghoshal and father Biswajit Ghoshal, has purchased an apartment in Worli, Mumbai, for Rs. 29.70 crore, according to property registration documents reviewed by Square Yards on the website of Inspector General of Registration (IGR). The transaction was registered in April 2026. About the property According to the IGR property registration documents reviewed by Square Yards, the property is located in Godrej Trilogy, Worli. The purchased apartment features a carpet area of 2,430.06 sq. ft. (225.76 sq. m.) and a total area of 2,750.28 sq. ft. (255.51 sq. m.). It comes with a total of three car parking spaces. The transaction incurred a stamp duty payment of Rs. 1.78 crore and registration charges of Rs. 30,000. Worli enjoys exceptional connectivity to Mumbai’s key commercial districts and lifestyle hubs, making it one of the city’s most premium and strategically located localities. The area is well connected via the Bandra–Worli Sea Link, Annie Besant Road, and the Western Express Highway, ensuring seamless access to both South Mumbai and the western suburbs. Worli is marked by luxury high-rises, premium office spaces, and upscale social infrastructure. The locality offers close proximity to major business districts such as Bandra Kurla Complex, Lower Parel, and Nariman Point, while also being near leading retail centres, fine dining restaurants, reputed schools, and top healthcare facilities. Its blend of waterfront views, connectivity, and urban sophistication makes Worli a preferred address for individuals seeking a premium lifestyle. About Shreya Ghoshal Shreya Ghoshal is an acclaimed Indian playback singer, widely regarded as one of the finest voices in Indian music. She was born to Bishwajit Ghoshal, an electrical engineer, and Sarmistha Ghoshal, a literature postgraduate. She rose to prominence after winning the reality show Sa Re Ga Ma Pa and made her Bollywood debut with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Devdas (2002), gaining recognition for songs like Bairi Piya. Over the years, she has sung numerous hit songs across multiple languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam. Known for her versatility, emotive singing, and strong classical foundation, she has received several prestigious awards, including multiple National Film Awards, while maintaining a graceful and respected public image.
06 April,2026 12:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAAP leader and MP Raghav Chadha has often been in the news for the issues he has raised in the Rajya Sabha. However, in a surprising turn of events, the Aam Aadmi Party replaced him as deputy leader on Thursday, sending a letter to the Parliament secretariat to reflect the change. The letter also stated that Chadha should not be allotted time to speak in the House. Amid this, actress Disha Patani’s sister Khushboo has come out in support of the young leader. Raghav Chadha gets support from Khushboo Patani After his ousting, Raghav Chadha posted a video on Instagram in which he questioned his removal and said that he cannot be defeated. He said that he has always championed issues faced by common people. "I would like to tell those who have snatched away my right to speak in Parliament to not take my silence for defeat. I am a river that can transform into a flood when the time comes. Jai Hind," he said in Hindi. He wrote in the caption, ‘Silenced, not defeated.’ Commenting on the post, Khushboo wrote, "Raghav ji, aap ek padhae likhae, suljahe neta hain. Hamare desh ko aap jaise neta ki bahut zarurat hain. Mujhe yakeen hain aane wale waqt mein aap apni ek party banaye. Hum sab aapke sath judna chahengae kyunki aap desh ke sath chalna chahate hain. Jai hind (You are a well educated and noble leader. Our country needs a leader like you. I have full faith that in the near future you will make your own party. We all would want to join you because you want to work with the country)." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Raghav Chadha (@raghavchadha88) Rajiv Adatia backs Raghav Chadha Television personality Rajiv Adatia has extended his support to politician Raghav Chadha, appreciating his work and his approach towards public issues. Rajiv Adatia shared a strong message highlighting Raghav Chadha’s connection with the common man and his efforts to bring awareness through his voice. Praising him, Rajiv said, “Raghav Chadda is one of the finest politician's India has seen! One of the only politician to talk about the common man and who's voice is making a change and bringing awareness! Popularity comes with connecting with people! He's connected with whole Nation! full support to you! Not only for the Man you are but the kindness and understanding you show to the Nation and the common man!” Raghav Chadha, who has been an active political figure and a former member of the Rajya Sabha, is known for raising issues that affect everyday citizens. His work often focuses on governance, awareness, and addressing concerns that impact the general public.
03 April,2026 09:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBollywood actress Malaika Arora Khan has given an apartment on rent in Mumbai, with a starting monthly rent of Rs. 3.10 lakh, according to property registration documents reviewed by Square Yards on the website of the Inspector General of Registration (IGR). About the property According to property registration documents accessed by Square Yards, the apartment in the Vida building, Bandra West, was rented. The deal was registered in March 2026 with a stamp duty of Rs. 30,819, registration charges of Rs. 1,000 and a security deposit of Rs. 20 lakh. As per Square Yards’ analysis, the lease tenure is set for a period of 36 months. The agreed monthly rent commences at Rs. 3.10 lakh for the first year and increases by 5 percent to Rs. 3.25 lakh in the second year. Similarly, further rises by 5 percent and reaches Rs. 3.14 lakh in the final year of the term. Accordingly, the cumulative rental value over the entire three-year term is Rs. 1.17 crore. Often referred to as the “Queen of the Suburbs,” the locality offers an eclectic mix of premium sea-facing apartments, heritage bungalows, and modern gated residences, attracting celebrities, entrepreneurs, and affluent families. Bandra West enjoys excellent connectivity through the Western Express Highway, Bandra-Worli Sea Link, and the suburban railway network, along with close proximity to key business hubs such as Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Lower Parel, and Andheri, making it highly convenient for professionals. The area is also renowned for its vibrant lifestyle, featuring upscale retail outlets, fine-dining restaurants, cafes, and popular hotspots like Carter Road and Bandstand. With its cosmopolitan atmosphere, premium infrastructure, and strong social and cultural appeal, Bandra West continues to be one of Mumbai’s most sought-after residential and investment destinations, especially among high-net-worth individuals and members of the entertainment industry. About Malaika Arora Malaika Arora is an Indian actress, dancer, model, and television personality, widely recognised for her distinctive screen presence and trendsetting style in the Indian entertainment industry. She rose to fame with her iconic dance performance in the song Chaiyya Chaiyya from the film Dil Se.., and went on to feature in several popular tracks such as Munni Badnaam Hui, earning acclaim for her confidence and captivating performances. Over the years, she has established herself as a prominent figure in fashion and fitness, becoming a judge on multiple reality shows and inspiring audiences with her dedication to a healthy lifestyle. Known for her bold personality, elegance, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has remained a consistent presence in the public eye. She was previously married to Arbaaz Khan, with whom she has a son, and continues to maintain a strong individual identity while balancing her professional commitments and personal life.
31 March,2026 01:47 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBollywood actress Madhuri Shankar Dixit has taken a commercial unit on rent in Mumbai, with a starting monthly rent of Rs. 4.25 lakh, according to property registration documents reviewed by Square Yards on the website of the Inspector General of Registration (IGR). The deal was officially registered in March 2026. About Madhuri Dixit's rental property According to property registration documents accessed by Square Yards, the commercial unit in One Lodha Place, Lower Parel, was rented, with a carpet area of 67.91 sq. m. (731 sq. ft.). The deal also includes one car parking space and was registered with a stamp duty of Rs. 72,600, registration charges of Rs. 1,000 and a security deposit of Rs. 17 lakh. As per Square Yards’ analysis, the lease tenure is set for a period of 60 months (5 years). The agreed monthly rent commences at Rs. 4.25 lakh for the first year and increases by 5 percent to Rs. 4.46 lakh in the second year. It further rises by 5 percent to Rs. 4.68 lakh in the third year, Rs. 4.91 lakh in the fourth year, and reaches Rs. 5.16 lakh in the fifth year. Accordingly, the cumulative rental value over the entire five-year term is Rs. 2.81 crore. Lower Parel is one of Mumbai’s most premium and rapidly evolving real estate destinations, known for its seamless blend of luxury living, commercial prominence, and strong investment potential. Once an industrial zone, it has transformed into a vibrant urban hub featuring upscale high-rise residences, gated communities, and integrated mixed-use developments, attracting corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and affluent families. The locality enjoys excellent connectivity through major arterial routes and the suburban railway network, along with easy access to key business districts such as Bandra Kurla Complex, Nariman Point, and Worli, making it highly convenient for daily commuting professionals. It is also home to prominent commercial and lifestyle landmarks like High Street Phoenix and Palladium, along with numerous corporate offices and financial institutions, further enhancing its appeal. About Madhuri Dixit Madhuri Dixit is an Indian actress, dancer, and television personality, widely regarded as one of the most iconic performers in Hindi cinema. She rose to prominence in the late 1980s and 1990s with blockbuster films such as Tezaab, Dil, Beta, Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!, and Dil To Pagal Hai, earning widespread acclaim for her expressive acting and exceptional dancing skills. Known as the “Dhak Dhak Girl” after her hit song in Beta, she became one of the most bankable and celebrated actresses of her era. Over the years, she has continued to remain relevant through television appearances, reality shows, and digital projects like Mrs Deshpande, Maja Ma, and The Fame Game. Admired for her elegance, versatility, and enduring charm, she is also known for balancing her successful career with her personal life. Her husband, Dr. Shriram Nene, a cardiovascular surgeon, has been a strong pillar of support, and together they have built a family life centred around their two sons while maintaining her connection with the entertainment industry.
27 March,2026 02:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA year ago, comedian Samay Raina’s popular YouTube show India’s Got Latent became a national headline. The show and its creators were subjected to multiple FIRs following a controversial comment made by Ranveer Allahbadia during his appearance as a panellist. His remark about parents and sex did not sit well with many. While Ranveer faced backlash on social media, the criticism escalated into real-world consequences, with legal cases filed against him, Samay, and several others. Kunal Kamra slams Ranveer Allahbadia Recently, comedian Kunal Kamra slammed Allahbadia, reminding him of the consequences many faced because of his “stupidity.” On Wednesday, YouTuber and podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia took to X and spoke about building his career and the setback caused by the Latent row. Reflecting on rebuilding, he quoted a poem by Kabir. He wrote, “It took me and my team 10 years to build BeerBiceps and The Ranveer Show to where they were. In one incident, a large part of it was shaken.” Kunal Kamra reacted strongly, calling out Allahbadia for a lack of accountability and highlighting how the incident impacted many others. In response, Kamra wrote, "30+ artists including me were summoned by authorities for being on Latent. The whole comedy fraternity took a hit because of how stupid you’re." He further wrote, "Shows were canceled, Venues pulled out, Judgements made, the pathetic shadow of your stupidity still continues to make lives of funny comedians difficult. You didn’t even care to understand that side. Stop pretending to be the nice guy you’re not. Take your cheque’s, lower your gaze & be very ashamed. You’re a contraceptive for creativity, stop milking this & go back to what you do best which is being a hurdle for upward social change while FraudCasting & clout chasing…" His post went viral, garnering over 30,000 likes and more than 4,000 reposts at the time of writing. 30+ artists including me were summoned by authorities for being on Latent. The whole comedy fraternity took a hit because of how stupid you’re. Shows were canceled, Venues pulled out, Judgements made, the pathetic shadow of your stupidity still continues to make lives of funny… — Kunal Kamra (@kunalkamra88) March 25, 2026 Ranveer Allahbadia recalls Latent controversy and support Talking about the Latent controversy with Farah Khan recently, Ranveer said, “My podcast was stopped after that; I had to bear a lot. I just prayed to God to return my work to me. I just wanted the opportunity to work because we were not even able to shoot.” Responding to him, Farah told Ranveer, “Never waste a good failure. Always learn from it. Put your head down and work.” Ranveer further spoke about the people who reached out to him with kind words after the controversy unfolded. “John Abraham sir called me and said the same thing. He called specially to check on me. He told me to handle myself and said this is normal in the media. Sonu Nigam, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul, and Yuzvendra Chahal also called me during that time… I couldn’t change the past, but I could change the future. I got a forced break after a crazy, intense six-year podcasting journey. I’m just trying to move on; I’ve tried to forgive a lot of people, even myself, and to a degree, I’ve been successful.”
26 March,2026 01:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIsha Ambani made a striking appearance on the red carpet at the 2026 Academy Awards alongside her husband Anand Piramal, as she turned heads with her elegant fashion choice. Isha Ambani's Oscars debut For the evening, Isha opted for a vintage creation from Valentino that perfectly captured a soft, spring-inspired aesthetic. The strapless gown featured delicate floral embroidery scattered across a champagne-toned base. The look gave the outfit a romantic and ethereal feel. The fitted bodice accentuated the silhouette, while the flowing skirt added a graceful touch to the look. She complemented the outfit with statement jewellery from Lorraine Schwartz, including sparkling drop earrings and a striking choker-style necklace that added just the right amount of glamour to the red carpet appearance. Ahead of the Oscars ceremony, Isha had also visited the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, where she met with the museum's Director and President Amy Homma. The meeting focused on their shared passion for cinema, arts and cultural storytelling. For the occasion, Isha chose a simple yet refined outfit, a crisp white shirt paired with denim pants. Isha Ambani is the daughter of Indian business tycoon Mukesh Ambani and philanthropist Nita Ambani. She married Anand Piramal, son of businessman Ajay Piramal, in December 2018. Priyanka Chopra at Oscars 2026 Actress Priyanka Chopra took to the stage along with actor Javier Bardem to present the International Feature Film. The duo presented the award to Norway's ‘Sentimental Value’, directed by Joachim Trier. For the occasion, Priyanka opted for a custom gown by Dior. The outfit followed a classic Hollywood aesthetic with modern detailing. The gown was strapless and white, designed with a structured corset-style bodice that shaped the upper silhouette and highlighted the waist. From the midsection, the dress flowed into a long skirt featuring a dramatic thigh-high slit, which created movement and added a contemporary edge to the otherwise bridal-style design. Along the slit and lower portion of the gown, black-and-white feathered or tulle detailing added texture and visual contrast to the monochrome look. She paired the dress with diamond and emerald jewellery including a statement necklace and matching earrings. Her styling leaned toward Old Hollywood glamour, finger-wave style curls, luminous makeup, and subtle smoky eye accents.
16 March,2026 02:06 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPopular stand up comedian Zakir Khan recently sparked concern among fans after appearing in hospital robes in a new vlog shared by his brother Arbaaz Khan. The video quickly drew attention online, with many viewers asking about the comedian’s health and wondering why he was in hospital. Zakir Khan gets hospitalised The vlog, filmed during the month of Ramzan, shows glimpses of Zakir inside a private room at Lilavati Hospital. In the video, he can be seen wearing a pink hospital robe while spending time with friends and family. The clip also captures him relaxing and watching a cricket match between India national cricket team and England cricket team on television. At one point in the vlog, Arbaaz asks his brother how he is feeling. Zakir responds casually while keeping his eyes on the match and says, “Match abhi fasa hua hai,” suggesting that the game was at a tense stage. His calm response seemed to lighten the atmosphere in the room, even though viewers quickly noticed that he was still recovering in hospital. However, the visuals left many fans worried. Soon after the vlog began circulating online, social media was flooded with messages from concerned followers who started asking about the comedian’s health and wishing him a speedy recovery. Some users also wondered what had led to his hospitalisation. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Arbaz khan (@arbazkhan0513) One fan commented, “Kia hua Zakir Khan ko??” while another wrote, “Why is Zakir bhai in hospital?” The comments section soon filled with questions and messages of support from fans who were clearly concerned after seeing him in hospital attire. Fans express concern Several others sent warm wishes and hoped that he would recover soon. A concerned follower wrote, “Aap thik ho? Get well soon before Eid. Sending all the healthy vibes your way.” Many fans also expressed hope that the comedian would return to performing soon once his health improves. The hospital appearance comes shortly after Zakir had announced that he would be stepping away from work and social media for a while due to health related reasons. Earlier this year, the comedian revealed that he planned to take an extended break from comedy to focus on his well being and personal matters. While no detailed update about his medical condition has been shared publicly so far, the vlog has reassured some fans who were relieved to see him in good spirits. Even while recovering in hospital, Zakir appeared relaxed and cheerful, reflecting the same easygoing personality that has made him one of India’s most loved comedians.
15 March,2026 01:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn 2024, Indian comedian Urooj Ashfaq became the first from the country to perform at the Edinburg Fringe Festival and even win an award for Best Newcomer performance. Now, the Fringe is all set to make its debut in India with its Mumbai edition and Urooj will be performing at the same.Known for her distinctive comedic voice, Ashfaq says fringe festivals offer performers a rare space to experiment while giving audiences a chance to discover something new. Why attend the Fringe festival? For audiences in India experiencing the format for the first time, Ashfaq believes the festival offers a unique cultural experience. “I think for the people who are experiencing the Fringe Festival for the first time in India, it's actually pretty iconic,” she tells mid-day. “I know there's not much awareness about the Fringe Festival, but it's a festival that has been going on in many different countries for a very long time.” According to her, the essence of the festival lies in discovery and creative freedom. “I think the point of the Fringe Festival is to discover new artists and maybe see the artists you already know, but also see them do new things,” she explains. “Because the Fringe, I think, is really about creatively letting loose from what I've experienced.” She adds that audiences attending the Mumbai edition should expect variety. “People should definitely look forward to discovering new types of comedy, new genres of comedy and new artists.” How Edinburgh changed her career Ashfaq’s journey at the Edinburgh fringe proved to be a turning point, especially after she won the Best Newcomer (Comedy) award. “For me personally, what changed is that I was able to find an audience in the UK that I was trying to build through YouTube and Instagram,” she says. “Now I was able to get people who are locals in the UK also to my show. So for me, it was nice because I'm able to expand my audience.” She describes the festival as a kind of creative classroom. “There are so many genres of comedy- alternative comedy, clowning, improv comedy, comedy plays. They're so diverse that it's like going to university. We don't really have that for stand-up.” For Ashfaq, it expanded the possibilities of what comedy could be. “As a writer, it showed me that the sky is the limit. It's not just the stuff I've seen on maybe Netflix, Amazon or YouTube. Just that you can do anything and make it funny was what I learned.” What audiences can expect in Mumbai At the Mumbai Fringe Festival, Ashfaq will perform in a lineup show alongside fellow female comedians. “We're doing a lineup show, me, Pavitra and Devanshi,” she says. “What's really fun about our show at the Fringe is that we're all friends, but our vibes overlap while also being very different.” Her set explores themes that are both personal and unexpected. “My set in particular is about erotica, which I've really gotten into in this show,” she says. “And some of it is about a surgery I had two years ago.” Interestingly, the two themes connect in surprising ways. “Strangely, they both really interlap and interconnect,” she adds with a laugh. “So I think that's something fun to look forward to.”
09 March,2026 01:09 PM IST | Mumbai | Athulya NambiarAs the Mumbai Fringe Festival gears up to welcome international performers, two distinct theatrical worlds will unfold on stage- a nostalgic Sherlock Holmes tale and a playful horror-comedy mime. British performers Nigel Miles-Thomas and David Hoskin spoke to mid-day.com about their shows, the spirit of fringe festivals, and what audiences can expect. A haunted house with comedy, horror and mime David Hoskin’s show Haunted House blends comedy, horror and physical theatre, inviting audiences into a classic gothic scenario. “Haunted House is a comedy-horror-mime show, so something for everyone,” David shares. “The audience arrives at this Haunted House after their car breaks down outside. It’s a very classic horror movie trope. A strange caretaker offers them shelter from a storm and then gives them a tour through an ancient mansion where you see the dead, the living and everything in between that occupy the house.” The show mixes theatrical traditions with physical storytelling. “It’s meant to be a little bit thrilling and have moments that are slightly scary and sometimes very strange,” he explains. “But it’s fundamentally comedy driven with gags, character comedy, and things in the tradition of European clown. There are also sections told purely through physicality and mime.” The show has already found audiences at major venues. “Audiences loved it at the Edinburgh Fringe. I recently performed it at Soho Theatre in London and it was received really well,” he adds, referring to the place where the Fringe festival was originated. While the show will remain largely the same for India, a few tweaks are inevitable. “It’s going to be pretty similar to what it is in the UK,” David says. “There’s a reference to a theme park in the UK that people outside the UK might not know, so I’ll change a couple of things. But I’m kind of resting on good faith and a little cultural exchange.” Sherlock Holmes returns to Baker Street Meanwhile, Nigel Miles-Thomas brings a more reflective theatrical experience rooted in the classic world of Sherlock Holmes. His show begins at a poignant moment in the detective’s life. “We find Sherlock Holmes more or less at the end of his life when he goes to the funeral of his great friend Dr Watson,” Nigel says. “He’s in retirement and doesn’t live in Baker Street anymore, but after the funeral he returns to the famous 221B Baker Street. That opens a whole chapter of memory.” The performance revisits the detective’s past cases and characters. “All the cases they solved together, all the characters they met in their life together — which can be amusing and also very sad,” he explains. “I play Sherlock Holmes predominantly, but I also create quite a lot of the characters involved in these Arthur Conan Doyle stories.” While many adaptations of Holmes exist, Nigel’s version leans towards tradition. “The writer and director wanted to root this firmly in the traditional Arthur Conan Doyle style,” he says. “Sherlock Holmes has an enormous worldwide audience. People love new interpretations, but they also feel very safe when they’re in the hands of traditional Sherlock Holmes.” The fast-paced world of fringe festivals For both performers, fringe festivals offer a unique space for experimentation and discovery. “Fringe festivals are incredibly useful for performers and great for audiences as well,” David says. “Edinburgh Fringe still wears the crown as the biggest international arts festival, but it’s not the be-all and end-all anymore.”He notes that smaller festivals around the world are gaining importance. “There are festivals outside the UK where the reputation is really building. Prague Fringe is a great example. Adelaide Fringe, Perth Fringe — audiences are starting to take notice.” He believes Mumbai’s festival shows similar promise. “Mumbai Fringe is an example of this. It’s already demonstrating it has the right attitude,” he says. Nigel agrees that performing at fringe festivals demands flexibility. “You have to be very flexible,” he says. “You don’t get much preparation time because venues have shows every hour. Sometimes you only get 15 minutes to get ready.” The pace can be intense, but performers thrive on it. “It’s fast moving and a little dangerous,” he says with a laugh. “But I think most performers kind of like that.” About Mumbai Fringe Festival The Mumbai Fringe Festival will make its India debut from March 10 to March 15, opening at the iconic Tata Theatre in NCPA before unfolding across Bandra’s creative circuit including Khar Comedy Club, 3 Art House and indifferent Gharonda. Over six days and nearly 60 performances, the festival will transform the neighbourhood into a dynamic cultural map where audiences move between venues, discover new voices and experience comedy, theatre, poetry, storytelling and experimental work in its most immediate form. The festival will feature artists such as Rohan Joshi, Kanan Gill, Varun Grover, Aakash Gupta, Priya Malik, Amandeep Khayal, Urooj Ashfaq and Amit Tandon, alongside acclaimed global works including Nigel Miles Thomas’s award-winning solo performance Sherlock Holmes: The Last Act, a striking solo adaptation of Macbeth presented by UK-based theatre company The Shakespeare Edit, and David Hoskin’s Haunted House, a genre-blending mix of mime, comedy and storytelling. True to the Fringe ethos, the programme is intimate, inventive and unafraid to take creative risks.
09 March,2026 11:51 AM IST | Mumbai | Athulya NambiarADVERTISEMENT
