Zakir Khan Makes History at MSG
By Asmita - Aug 18, 2025
Indian stand-up comedian Zakir Khan made history by becoming the first comedian to perform a Hindi-language comedy show at New York City's Madison Square Garden. Bollywood celebrities like Arjun Kapoor and Tabu celebrated Zakir's achievement, highlighting the significance of this milestone for Indian comedy. Zakir's rise from Indore to international recognition is marked by his relatable style and the show's success at MSG, showcasing the global appeal of Hindi-language comedy.

Madison Square Garden via Wikimedia
Arjun Kapoor, Tabu, and several other ,[object Object], recently rejoiced as ,[object Object], ,[object Object], made history by becoming the first comedian to perform a ,[object Object], show at New York City's iconic ,[object Object], (MSG). This monumental milestone marks a proud moment for Indian comedy and the Hindi language on a prestigious global stage, establishing ,Zakir Khan, as a leading figure in the international comedy circuit. The show was part of Zakir's ongoing North American tour, which includes several major cities in the United States and Canada. Notably, the comedian's posters illuminated Times Square billboards in New York, underscoring his widespread appeal among diverse audiences.
Arjun Kapoor expressed his excitement and pride by sharing a video clip on Instagram showcasing Zakir receiving a well-deserved standing ovation at MSG. He praised Zakir, writing, “Fantastic Zakir bhai ,Madison square garden, sold out!!! Making all of us proud.” Actress Tabu also reacted positively, responding to the post with clapping emojis, while other celebrities like Vir Das, Zareen Khan, Badshah, and Armaan Malik congratulated Zakir with warm messages and celebratory exclamations. The support from Bollywood and entertainment personalities highlights the significance of Zakir’s achievement, inspiring fans and artists alike across India and abroad.
Originally from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, ,Zakir Khan, has risen from humble beginnings to become one of India's most beloved comedians. He is known for his relatable storytelling style and the popular "sakht launda" persona that resonates deeply with audiences. Zakir took the stage at ,Madison Square Garden, delivering a show filled with humor about everyday life, connecting with an audience of 6,000 people through the Hindi language, a feat unprecedented at such a famous venue. His journey includes winning Comedy Central India's “India’s Best Stand-Up” competition in 2012, and he has since sold over 200,000 tickets worldwide with more than 8.2 million YouTube subscribers.
The performance at MSG not only symbolizes personal triumph for ,Zakir Khan, but also represents a breakthrough moment for Indian comedy on the global stage. The event attracted attention beyond just stand-up enthusiasts, bringing together fans, friends, and celebrities, including celebrity chef Vikas Khanna and actor Kal Penn, who showed their support. Ahead of the show, Zakir appeared in American media and even participated in a cooking segment with Vikas Khanna, further amplifying his reach. His success underscores how Indian artists and Hindi-language performers can captivate international audiences while staying true to their cultural roots. This landmark event paves the way for greater recognition and appreciation of Indian comedy and its evolving role worldwide.