Namita Nayyar:
There are times when one is booed off stage or says a bad day. How do you go about handling the same?
Harpriya Bains:
Like all new journeys, this wasn’t an easy one too and I can tell you one thing for sure that making people laugh is one serious business! I have spent almost the last 4 years writing and rewriting my scripts, testing each joke in several open mics, facing the embarrassment of jokes falling flat and bombing on stage, facing hecklers and comments like ‘aye aunty….go back to your kitty party’, chasing comedy clubs for mic time, chasing friends and family to come to see your show. But most of all, finding time to write and rehearse peacefully in the midst of endless household chores and 2 years of the covid situation. And since comedy clubs only work at night after 6 or 8 pm, very often, my husband would get back from work around 7 pm and I would grab the car keys and run off at 7.30 pm. But I can proudly say, that no matter what the obstacles or the pace, I am loving each step of the way as I know now that this is my calling.
There have been many setbacks and blank moments on the stage, and I am sure there will be more, but they have only motivated me to write better, practice more and get back on track. There is no success that comes without failure. And the sooner, you accept that, the faster you learn, move on, and grow. I absolutely love being on stage and the sound of laughter and clapping from the audience is now music to my ears. My heart skips a beat every time someone from the audience comes up to me and says ‘you nailed it’ or ‘we loved your set’. I am grateful for all the appreciation I get which is far more valuable than a couple of hecklers who are best ignored.
Namita Nayyar:
What is your advice for women who admire and follow you on aging gracefully?
Harpriya Bains:
I believe women have immense power, talent, and discipline to achieve whatever they want whenever they want and age is just a number. In fact, I would say, the older we get, the wiser and more resilient we get to handle any challenge that comes our way, we have the experience to deal with failures and setbacks with grace and have the courage to bounce back with dignity. But as we find our own path, we as women must hold the hands of other women also and support each other’s journey. I always say we are in this together and as long as we have each other’s back, no one can stop us from looking beyond the horizon.
Namita Nayyar:
Quote, you live by.
Harpriya Bains:
You get in life, what you have the courage to ask for. – Oprah Winfrey.
