Gotta admit, Comedy Darbar is one of the very few Nepali television shows right now that I look forward to every week. It’s been less than four months since they started this thing and it has already become one of the most entertaining shows at the moment. Tbh, I was kinda skeptical about the show at first ‘cos they had a lineup with almost all new artists but the way they’ve been pulling it off, that definitely deserves all the appreciation.

And after watching their latest episode, I knew I had to write this piece and no, it’s not about the performers, performances or the guests, it’s about Gauri Malla — who is the ‘Maharani’ of the Darbar and she kinda proved that she actually is a queen. Slay!

So the latest episode of Comedy Darbar had two guests, Rishi Dhamala and Prakash Subedi — two of the most senior journalists in Nepal. Now, I am sure you all have watched this and you guys are totally familiar with what happens in the show. It’s directed by Bkey Agarwal, who also hosts another show called ‘Aama Kasam Yaha Dukhcha’ which is basically a roast show — you call a guest and roast the hell outta ’em. So obviously, Comedy Darbar also does that to some extent.

Dhamala is not only an extremely experienced journo but is also one of the bosses at Prime Times TV. So while the performers had to take digs at him, there was somewhat some kind of hesitation as well; and him just sitting there — all serious, without laughing — didn’t help much. The first act of the 16th episode had Pawan Khatiwada ‘Myakkuri’ and Miss Pabi, playing a newly married couple, ready for their ‘suhaagraat‘. Myakkuri straight up went for Dhamala, making fun of his age gap with wife Aliza Gautam and his love for ‘kaju‘. He didn’t spare ‘Rajatpat Uncle’ Prakash Subedi as well but throughout the act, while Subedi seemed to be enjoying, Dhamala didn’t.

Once the act was over, as always, host Namrata Shrestha asked what the judges, Bijay Baral and Gauri Malla thought of the performance. It was at this moment when the veteran actress won all of our hearts all over again. The way she told the performers not to be scared, no matter who there is in front of them, and focus only on their work as performers was so inspiring to listen to. She said, “You are performers, you are actors, no matter which “Mai ka laal” comes here, you don’t need to be scared because this is your stage.” To which, Myakkuri actually admitted that this was the most scared he had ever been on the show while performing yet.

I am sure that comment, those motivating lines must have inspired the other performers as well because it did turn out to be one of the best episodes so far. All the performers kept taking jabs at both the guests throughout the episode. It looked like Dhamala did feel offended at times when the artists were throwing shades but he was graceful enough to keep appreciating all the acts and the show.

Oh yeah, there was also another instance when Gauri Malla was so protective of her team. It was when Prakash Subedi jokingly asked Namrata Shrestha, “Tapailai jaado lagdaina?”, which was definitely directed a the host’s attire. To which, she didn’t really have a good comeback and only said it’s part of the job. However, Gauri Malla stood up for her and answered the question for her. “Many people comment on Namrata’s clothing which I think is unnecessary”, she said. “We (judges) sit here, even the performers come and go after 10-15 minutes but she is the only one who is there on the stage the entire time. So it’s only fitting that she has to look presentable and attractive; it’s her part.” I mean, how sweet is that.

She is there, protecting the crew like her children. I am sure everyone on the set, no matter if it’s this show’s or of any other show or film she is part of, feel so secure and comfortable around her. She must be the mother figure for all them. I gotta say, she is my favorite “judge” in any of the Nepali shows. I am not sure if she is called a judge in this show as it’s not really a competition, but yeah, whatever role it is, she truly shines. Even her comments on all the performances are always so honest and she always has great feedback for the performers. Such a queen.

Now, about Namrata Shrestha; I appreciate how she has grown as a host. She seems much more comfortable now and is truly doing justice to her role. I know she is not one of the most popular Miss Nepal winners because her season took place during the pandemic when everybody was concerned about the safety of themselves and their loved ones; and didn’t really give a damn about any pageants or events. But I am happy she is getting there. She has also bagged her first film role and will be debuting with a Salon Basnet film called ‘Rangi’.

Many pageant queens have tried their luck in films but hardly any of them have made it big on silver screen. I hope Namrata will actually be able to do well in the industry. Good luck to her.

Here’s the full episode of Comedy Darbar, if you haven’t seen it already.