Funny Business

BY GRACE CLARKE

Humour is like a fine drink; everyone has their own taste: some prefer it aged in the barrel of subtle storytelling, while others enjoy it served in a slapstick mug, overflowing with campy jokes and kitschy quips. Then, there are those who like their humour shaken, not stirred, shared among a close-knit crew. But no matter your flavour, we all love a good laugh; some of us just crave it like a cheeky nightcap at the end of a long day.

Humour, much like any art form, evolves with its audience, adapting to the ever- changing tastes and sensibilities of the times. Creating humour that appeals to a wide audience is not an easy task. It requires a careful mix of timing, tact, and thrill. After all, humour might be personal, but when done right, it’s a language we all understand, whether we’re laughing at a highbrow jest or a lowbrow pratfall. To delve into the artful craftsmanship of humour, Masala spoke to the multifaceted comedic icon Kumarason Chinnadurai, widely celebrated by his stage name and nickname, Kumar. As he brings his “Beats, Rhymes, & Punchlines” tour to Bangkok on 28 September at the Amari Bangkok, in collaboration with LOL Asia, Kumar’s performance is highly anticipated. Of South Indian heritage and raised in Singapore, Kumar is a rare talent – like capturing lightning in a bottle. His enduring appeal in the comedy world can be attributed to his sharp wit, cultural insight, gender-defying persona, and undeniable charisma. In an exclusive conversation, we explore Kumar’s comedic realm, delving into his life, family, and identity. Through his distinctive lens, Kumar reveals the delicate artistry required to create humour that resonates universally while remaining steadfastly authentic.

How was your experience growing up with influences from two different cultures?

My upbringing wasn’t exactly multicultural. We’re South Indians, but we’re also Singaporean through and through. The culture at home is unmistakably South Indian, yet the environment we navigate is distinctly Singaporean. The conservativeness and values differ greatly; in India, there are more rules and stricter expectations, while in Singapore, we’re embraced as part of the local fabric, which comes with a more relaxed approach to traditions.

What initially brought you into the entertainment sector?

I’ve always believed there’s a higher power guiding each person’s path. Wherever you find yourself, that’s exactly where you’re meant to be. For me, stepping into the entertainment sector felt like a natural alignment with that calling. Honestly, I think I was just fortunate to be in the right place at the right time.

You’ve been involved in entertainment across comedy, television, and film. Have you observed any differences between these mediums, and how have your experiences varied between them?

Each medium offers its own unique experience. Television gives you the luxury of retakes, allowing you to craft your performance to near-perfection during production. In contrast, theatre is all about the moment – if you make a mistake, you must improvise on the spot, which brings a certain candidness and rawness to the performance. On stage, there’s a greater artistic value; you have more freedom to be expressive and truly embody the character in real-time.

Drag has played a significant role in your career. How did you first get introduced to the world of drag?

When I was young, I used to dress up in my mother’s saris when she wasn’t around. I felt that this would be a fun aspect to add to the stage – why not turn a hobby into a career, and turn an art form that was once seen as taboo to something empowering? Especially before, seeing someone out in drag would turn heads, prompting questions on identity and gender. So, I decided, why not perform in it? I wanted to make a statement and gain the audience’s attention regardless of what they thought. It worked.

Many people worry that turning their hobbies into careers might diminish their enjoyment of them. How was that transition for you?

For me, dressing up was more than just a performance – it was a vital part of my personal expression and mental wellbeing. Looking good often translates to feeling good, and I believe that’s crucial for mental health. I’ve never regretted embracing this aspect of my career; it has been incredibly beneficial and has brought me to where I am today, feeling truly lucky and blessed.

In your own words, how would you describe your comedic style?

Raunchy. Daring. Untamed.

What can we expect from your tour?

Expect a rich blend of musical influences from the 80s and 90s, eras when music truly thrived. My show is designed to evoke nostalgia for the older generations, while introducing fresh perspectives for Gen Z and Alpha. It’s a journey that bridges past and present, helping younger audiences understand and appreciate the times of their parents. By the end, I hope
everyone takes away a sense of calm and a deeper appreciation for those dearest to us, like our families.

Let’s discuss your biography, ‘Kumar: From Rags to Drag’, which was released in 2011. In it, you were very open about your identity during a period when societal views were beginning to shift away from traditional heteronormative perspectives. What was the process like for you as a public figure coming out so openly?

In this industry, authenticity, being open and honest about who you are, is crucial. While I believe people may have already sensed my truth, I didn’t write my book to make a coming- out statement. Instead, it’s a tribute to my twenty years in Singapore’s entertainment scene, and naturally, my truth is part of that narrative. Accepting yourself is the first step; only then can you expect others to embrace you.

Starting off, did you experience any pushback from the industry, or the people around you?

Naturally, I faced some losses along the way – friends distanced themselves, and my family was initially opposed. But I was determined to pursue a career that felt authentic to me. I couldn’t expect everyone to immediately support my path, especially given the unconventional angle I chose. However, times and perspectives evolve, and it’s important to embrace change and continue growing. Life is a constant journey of learning, and each day brings new lessons.

What is your writing process for shows, and where do you find your inspiration?

I take pride in my keen observation skills, which help me stay natural and authentic in my performances, aided by my fantastic team. For inspiration, I often look at how people interact in public. For instance, I notice couples dining out, sitting across from each other, engrossed in their mobile phones rather than engaging with each other. This often sparks laughter among the audience, who recognise themselves in these moments of disconnection.

Given the shifting dynamics in modern times, humour can sometimes get lost. As a professional in the field of humour, what’s your perspective on how people can cultivate and appreciate laughter in their lives?

One silver lining of the changing times is that AI can’t quite replicate the art of telling a joke, something I’m grateful for. The human touch in comedy is irreplaceable. Relying too much on AI can lead to a loss of genuine connection. Stand-up comedy, in particular, is an experience best enjoyed live. It’s even supported by medical research: just fifteen minutes of laughter a day can lower the risk of heart failure, highlighting its benefits for both mental and physical health.

Do you have any advice for individuals in the community who want to enter the entertainment industry, particularly on how to stay true to their identities while pursuing their careers?

Many people today struggle with being true to themselves due to the fear of diverging from the crowd. This pressure often leads to a loss of individualism and personal identity. It’s important to stop comparing yourself to others and setting materialistic goals, like owning the best cars, moving out early, or travelling extensively. When these aspirations aren’t met, it can lead to disappointment, or even depression. Instead, people should focus on relaxing, trusting the process, and being comfortable with who they are. Embrace your true self, live for yourself, and find joy in your own uniqueness.