I n the world of Indian political satire, Jaspal Bhatti is both a legacy and a reminder — of a time when political criticism and dissent in India were possible even on state-backed networks. Nothing could escape Bhatti’s blazing scrutiny, whether it was rising onion prices, corruption in politics or the issue of burning brides.

“I have always believed that the humour of undivided Punjab has always been the sharpest, the most unexpected and good-natured or self-deprecating humour. Jaspal Bhatti for me represented that humour, which was subtle that never punched down but up, that questioned systems in power, and mindsets that rule us. He is the first guru of satire in India and he remains the biggest influence on my comedy,” said stand-up comic, lyricist and filmmaker Varun Grover.

That b

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