I’m funny when I’m nervous, says Shubhashish Jha

This is your first comedy show. How does it feel to be a part of it?

It is a learning experience for me. There is a lot of spontaneity involved when a person does a comedy show. The person needs to have quick responses to the moments and situations. The biggest highlight of this show is that it is taking me towards being a complete actor.

This is a very new concept since it is a blend of comedy and mystery. What is your take on it?

Whenever I’m nervous or anxious, I tend to become funnier to calm myself down. So, I think comedy is very relaxing but when a mystery or a spooky element gets attached to it, it puts the audience on edge and entertainment takes a new level. As a viewer you get to experience laughter and intrigue at the same time.

Tell us about your character in this upcoming show.

I am in love with my character Jitendra Jamvant Jindal aka JiJaJi. He loves family and his only mission is to get hold of this ancient property. With this character, the things which I can’t do in my real life, I get an opportunity to do it. The character of Jijaji completes me.

Jijaji on Sony Sab has a legacy. What makes your character stand out?

My character is anti-social, which people can’t afford to be in real life. People think a lot before speaking, not offending anybody and always considering what is right to say. But this character lives in his world. The character’s self-belief might be delusional but is admirable.

What kind of preparation have you done for this role?

The character resides in Punjabi Bagh, which is in old Delhi. I did a lot of research under my director Shashank Bali’s guidance. I have watched many videos of old Delhi and learnt about the city. The people living here use karkhandari zubaan, so I have learnt this dialect. I have also watched a few old movies like Chandni Chowk and worked on the tone.

How has been your experience working with Hiba?

Hiba has already been a part of a lot of comedy shows. She is very spontaneous and very expressive. Though we have not shot for a long time, there is a lot of comfort and understanding, which help improvise our scenes.

Message for your fans?

I would like to urge the fans and viewers to support us in this new journey as we bring back their favourite show in a new andaaz. I am sure, entertainment and comedy will turn a new leaf with Jijaji Chhat Parr Koii Hai.