Sudesh Lehri (born 27 October 1968) is an Indian stand-up comedian, singer and actor who has appeared on television comedy programs, films, and stage shows.
Early life and background Lehri was born on 27 October 1968 in Jalandhar, Punjab, India, into a middle-class family. His father worked as a goldsmith, and the family faced financial difficulties. Due to economic constraints, Lehri left school early and took up various jobs, including shop work, construction labor, and assisting his father.
From a young age, he showed an interest in comedy and often imitated local characters to entertain friends and family. He began performing in local theatre and community programs, where he presented skits and stand-up routines. These early performances marked the beginning of his involvement in entertainment and led him to pursue further opportunities in the field.
Career
Breakthrough with The Great Indian Laughter Challenge In 2007, Lehri participated in the third season of The Great Indian Laughter Challenge, which marked a significant point in his career. Competing alongside other emerging comedians, he drew attention for his observational humor, which often focused on everyday life and characters inspired by rural and middle-class settings. His performances were noted for their expressive delivery and use of voice modulation.
Although he did not win the competition, Lehri was one of the finalists and gained recognition among television audiences, leading to broader visibility in the Indian entertainment industry.
Television Success Following his appearance on The Great Indian Laughter Challenge, Lehri became active in Indian television comedy programming.
Comedy Circus (2008–2014) Lehri joined Comedy Circus in 2008 and participated across several seasons. His on-screen partnership with fellow comedian Krushna Abhishek became a recurring feature, with the duo performing comedic skits that included parodies of Bollywood films, satirical takes on social and political themes, and character-driven humor. Their performances received favorable audience response and led to multiple wins on the show.
Comedy Nights Bachao (2015–2017) Lehri appeared on Comedy Nights Bachao, a comedy series known for its roast-style humor. His participation included roasting celebrity guests in a format that blended satire with light-hearted commentary.
Comedy Classes (2014–2016) In Comedy Classes, Lehri portrayed a range of comedic characters. The show featured both scripted sketches and improvised segments, allowing him to work in various comedic styles.
The Kapil Sharma Show Lehri has appeared on The Kapil Sharma Show in guest and recurring roles. His interactions with host Kapil Sharma and participation in skits contributed to his continued visibility on Indian television. Laughter Chefs Lehri has appeared on the show Laughter Chefs as an contestant which gained him attention and recognition again.
Film career Lehri has acted in Hindi films including No Problem (2010), Ready (2011), Jai Ho (2014, cameo), and Great Grand Masti (2016). He has also appeared in Punjabi-language films.
Collaborations with Krushna Abhishek Lehri frequently collaborated with comedian Krushna Abhishek on various television comedy shows. Their performances blended elements of slapstick, satire, and improvisation. Notable collaborations between the two include:
Comedy Circus Comedy Nights Bachao Comedy Classes
Awards and honors Lehri has received several awards and nominations for his work in comedy and television, including:
Indian Telly Award for Best Actor in a Comic Role (nominated) Lions Gold Award for Excellence in Comedy Punjabi Icon Award, recognizing his contribution to Punjabi entertainment
Personal life Lehri is married to Mamta Lehri, and the couple has two children. He has publicly acknowledged the support of his wife and family during the early stages of his career and beyond.
In interviews, Lehri has expressed an interest in music and cited comedians such as Johnny Lever among his inspirations. He has also spoken about his interest in mentoring emerging talent in the field of comedy.
Filmography He has appeared in several Punjabi and Hindi films. Year Film Role Language Notes2004 Ghuggi Chhoo Mantar Punjabi 2007 Wagah Punjabi 2008 Hashar Punjabi 2009 Akhiyaan Udeekdian Punjabi 2010 Bhavnao Ko Samjho Hindi 2010 Muskurake Dekh Zara Punjabi 2010 Panjaban Punjabi 2010 Simran Punjabi 2011 Welcome to Punjab Punjabi 2011 Naughty @ 40 Hindi 2011 Ready Lehri Hindi 2013 Dil Sada Luteya Gaya Punjabi 2014 Jai Ho Pandit Hindi 2016 Great Grand Masti Ramse Hindi 2017 Munna Michael Inspector Shinde Hindi 2019 Total Dhamaal Altaaf Hindi 2019 Tara Mira Punjabi 2019 Ardab Mutiyaran Bittu Bansal Punjabi 2022 Nikamma Suresh Trivedi Hindi 2023 Dream Girl 2 Baby Baba Hindi 2025Badass Ravi KumarRockyHindiBaaghi 4Pali PehelwanHindiJassi Weds Jassi MammajiHindi
Television shows
Television series Year Show Role(s) Notes2007The Great Indian Laughter Challenge IIIHimself2nd Runner-up2007Dekh India DekhHimself2008–2014Comedy CircusHimself 2014–15 Comedy Classes Various characters2015–2017Comedy Nights BachaoHost and various characters 2016Comedy Nights LiveVarious characters2017–2018The Drama CompanyVarious characters2021The Kapil Sharma ShowVarious characters2024-2025Laughter Chefs – Unlimited EntertainmentContestant 2025Pati Patni Aur Panga – Jodiyon Ka Reality CheckContestant 7th place
References
External links