Vipul Roy on His Bond with Kiku Sharda: “He’s Not Playing the Game, He’s Just Being Himself”

In an industry that often celebrates glamour and performance, Kiku Sharda continues to win hearts simply by being himself. Known for his comic brilliance and infectious energy, Kiku has brought laughter to millions through shows like The Kapil Sharma Show and F.I.R. But on Rise & Fall, audiences are witnessing a different side of him — one that’s emotional, real, and deeply human.

His long-time friend and co-actor Vipul Roy, who has shared both laughter and life lessons with him over the years, couldn’t be happier seeing this version of Kiku unfold on screen. “We have been friends for a very, very long time,” Vipul reminisced. “Our first connection was through F.I.R., and since then, our bond has only grown stronger. Later, we worked together on Partners, where we actually started calling each other ‘partners.’ Our wives even got jealous of that! But that’s how close we are. He truly is my partner.”

The camaraderie between the two actors goes far beyond work. Vipul describes Kiku as one of the most genuine human beings he’s ever met. “He is one of the most honest and grounded people you’ll come across. He’s loving, caring, and always there for everyone around him. Whether it’s his co-stars, his friends, or his fans — he makes people feel valued. That’s what makes him special.”

Watching Kiku on Rise & Fall, Vipul says he isn’t surprised by the audience’s emotional response. “What people are seeing now is exactly who Kiku is in real life — joyful, emotional, fun-loving, and incredibly sensitive. That balance of humor and heart is what sets him apart. He’s not pretending or strategizing for the show. He’s just being himself, and that honesty is his biggest strength,” Vipul shared warmly.

For years, fans have adored Kiku as the man who can make anyone laugh. But Rise & Fall has peeled back the layers, revealing his emotional depth and vulnerability — traits rarely associated with comedians. Vipul believes this exposure is helping viewers see Kiku in a more complete light. “People always knew him as the funny guy — the one who could make you laugh in seconds. But now they’re also seeing his emotional side — his anger, frustration, love, and even moments of sadness. It’s refreshing and real. It makes people relate to him, not just as a performer, but as a person,” Vipul explained.

Beyond the laughter, Kiku’s journey is one of balance — between comedy and compassion, between performance and authenticity. Vipul says that this is exactly why audiences have connected with him for so long. “He’s the same person off-screen that you see on-screen. He can make you laugh while you’re crying, and somehow, it feels healing. That’s a rare gift.”

Before signing off, Vipul left a heartfelt message for his dear friend — one that captures the essence of their bond and admiration. “Go, brother, like you always do — rise and shine! Keep being yourself, because that’s what makes you unforgettable, both on and off the screen.”

In Rise & Fall, as Kiku continues to touch hearts with his sincerity and humour, it’s clear that laughter may be his profession — but authenticity is his superpower.