Urooj Ashfaq: First Indian Comic Triumphs at Edinburgh Comedy Awards
Urooj Ashfaq, a Mumbai-based comedian, has secured the prestigious Best Newcomer Award at the 2023 Edinburgh Comedy Awards for her debut show titled “Oh No!”. Her victory marks a historic moment as she becomes the first Indian comic to clinch an accolade at the Edinburgh Awards.
Established in 1981, the Edinburgh Comedy Awards have evolved into a highly esteemed comedy prize, recognizing the best comedy shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Past winners of the Best Newcomer Award include renowned names like Tim Vine, Milton Jones, Tim Minchin, Sarah Millican, and Alex Edelman.
Urooj Ashfaq’s comedic prowess is not limited to her recent victory. Earlier this year, she showcased her talents at London’s Soho Theatre, earning acclaim for her performance. Her journey in comedy also saw her reach the finals of TLC’s Queens of Comedy. Ashfaq has also contributed her writing skills to the sitcom “Die Trying”.
Her comedic inspiration is deeply rooted in both external influences and personal experiences. Drawing from the world of comedy, she aspires to craft laughter-inducing performances. Her own life encounters provide a rich source of material, creating a unique blend of relatability and humor in her work.
Interestingly, Ashfaq’s gift for making people laugh has been a lifelong talent. From childhood, she used humor to navigate tricky situations, diffusing tension and earning smiles from adults. This ability has since blossomed into a successful career, where her wit resonates with audiences and sustains her livelihood.
Her achievement at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards not only spotlights her comedic talent but also underscores the reciprocal nature of humor in her life journey.
Re-reported from the article originally published in Shethepeople
