Vir Das on Becoming First Indian to Host International Emmys: Team Contacted After My Win

Vir Das is returning to the International Emmys, but this time as the host, marking him as the first Indian to do so. Last year, he won in the Comedy category for his special Landing, and now he’s been asked to take on hosting duties. Reflecting on the honor, Vir says, “I won the Emmy last year, and a few months later, the team approached me to host. It’s a huge privilege to go from nominee to winner, and now to hosting. I didn’t even expect the nomination last year, so I’m letting those around me celebrate while I focus on getting the job done.”

At 45, Das has performed stand-up worldwide, but hosting the International Emmys is a unique challenge, especially with the sensitivities surrounding comedy today. When asked if he would tread carefully with his jokes, he explained, “I haven’t started writing my script yet since I’m busy editing my co-directed film Happy Patel, produced by Aamir Khan. But humor is universal. Sensibilities change, and if you constantly worry about getting into trouble, you lose authenticity. You just have to be yourself and see what happens.”

The award show is set for November 25, and Das, maintaining his confidence, adds, “I don’t even think once before speaking on stage, let alone twice.” When asked if any topics are off-limits, he concludes, “The audience sets the limits, not me.”