Ahsaan Qureshi

Ahsaan Qureshi, also known as Ehsaan Qureshi, is a celebrated Indian stand-up comedian and actor who has been a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for over two decades. Born on April 4, 1969, in Seoni, Madhya Pradesh, he grew up in a middle-class family where he initially pursued an academic path before his comedic talents took center stage. He is highly educated, holding a double Master of Arts degree in Urdu, and he worked as a teacher prior to transitioning into full-time performing arts. His background in literature and poetry deeply influenced his signature "Shayarana" comedic style, characterized by a sing-song delivery and the use of Urdu shayari to convey satirical messages about social and political issues.

His professional breakthrough came in 2005 when he participated in the inaugural season of The Great Indian Laughter Challenge on Star One. His unique observational humor and rhythmic delivery made him an instant sensation, and he ultimately finished as the first runner-up of the competition. This success turned him into a household name and paved the way for a diverse career in television and film. He expanded his reality television footprint by appearing as a contestant in the second season of Bigg Boss in 2008, where he spent nine weeks in the house. Over the years, he has made guest appearances on major programs such as The Kapil Sharma Show and served as a narrator for the Hindi-dubbed version of the popular show Takeshi’s Castle on Pogo TV.

In addition to his stand-up career, Qureshi has established himself as a versatile actor in both television serials and feature films. On the small screen, he is well-remembered for his roles in shows like Hum Aapke Ghar Mein Rehte Hain, where he played Professor Jai Prakash Tripathi, and the Sony TV series Yeh Un Dinon Ki Baat Hai, in which he portrayed Principal Pandey. His filmography includes notable roles in movies such as Bombay to Goa (2007), Ek Se Bure Do (2009), Bhavnao Ko Samjho (2010), and Ek Paheli Leela (2015). More recently, he made a significant return to the camera in June 2025 by joining the cast of the television series Saru, playing the character Narayan Ji (NJ), a role that blends his characteristic humor with a more grounded, paternal charm.

Today, Ahsaan Qureshi remains a relevant and active voice in the comedy circuit, frequently performing at corporate events, kavi sammelans, and international shows. He has successfully adapted to the digital age, maintaining a strong presence on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube, where he shares vlogs, classic routines, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of his life. With over twenty years of experience, he continues to be recognized for his ability to blend traditional Indian poetic forms with contemporary social commentary, ensuring his place as a pioneer in the Indian stand-up comedy landscape.