Veteran actor and satire pioneer Shekhar Suman—best known for Movers & Shakers—has admitted that reviving sharp-edged satire in today’s environment is a tall order. In an exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama, he shared how the current atmosphere is stifling comedy that challenges the powerful—and what hope still flickers for softened critique.
“The Democracy Has Changed”
Suman reflected on the golden era of Movers & Shakers (1997–2001), when satire thrived and political figures, including PM Vajpayee, even praised it
“The atmosphere is not conducive for people to talk… With social media, everyone trolls, everyone has an opinion… you wonder who’s managing them from the dark.”
He believes today’s “unknown online armies” create an environment where fearless satire is nearly impossible.
Revival Plans Hit Realism
While Suman still holds hope, he’s realistic about the setbacks. The revival of Movers & Shakers and Dekh Bhai Dekh is in the pipeline, but:
“There’s many factors—budget, timing… we started with Ek Mulaqat and the rest will follow.”
Yet he acknowledges any comeback must be “toned down” to fit the present climate.
Toning It Down—but Still Critical
He continues to believe satire has a place—even under the current government:
“If you tone it down… I think Modi government or any government… will be kind enough to take that kind of criticism.”
Still, he admits the line between satire and offense has blurred:
“People have started using unparliamentary language… things are not the same anymore.”
From Vajpayee Praise to Gagged Times
Back in the late ‘90s, Movers & Shakers satirical bits earned respect—even from those at the top, like Vajpayee, who reportedly told Suman:
“When you mimic me, I laugh the loudest.”
Now, Suman fears that same political goodwill has given way to intolerance, as trolling and censorship clamp down.
Satire vs. Comedy: He Draws the Line
Suman distinguishes his style:
“I do satire… not stand-up comedy… Satire is talking about relevant things in an intelligent way.”
He’s wary of being labeled just a comedian, emphasizing thoughtfulness and purpose over mere laughs.
What This Reveals About the Cultural Climate
- Tighter Social Media Policing: Suman notes how trolls can escalate satire into controversy overnight.
- Changing Political Tastes: Leaders once applauded by satire now respond defensively, shrinking the space for critique.
- Generational Ceiling: Today’s masked or malformed “opinions” may never have caught mainstream notice in earlier, more tolerant times.
Jay‑Ho! Takeaway
- Nostalgia meets reality: Suman’s Movers & Shakers was once fearless—but today, its biting satire may falter in a more defensive culture.
- Tone matters: He suggests a wiser, softer version of satire might succeed—but only if we still allow room for wit aimed at those in power.
Final Thought
If Movers & Shakers returns, expect satire—but not as you remember. It’ll be sharp, yet cautious; loyal to art, yet reflexive of realpolitik.
Because true satire survives not just on wit, but on whether we’re brave enough to laugh at ourselves and those who lead us.
