Comedian Munawar Faruqui, who rose to wider prominence after winning reality shows such as Lock Upp Season 1 and Bigg Boss 17, recently opened up about his humble beginnings and early struggles. The comedian recalled how he started working at the age of eight at a small shop, earning just ₹10-20 a day. He also spoke about how financial circumstances forced him to discontinue his education after Class 6, despite being a bright student.
‘Started working at 8, earned ₹10-20 a day’
Munawar appeared on former tennis star Sania Mirza’s podcast, Serving It Up With Sania. Recalling his first jobs, he said, “I was eight years old when I started working. I used to work at a small shop and sell different things. I would earn ₹10-20 a day. When I was 11, I started working at a gift shop, where I stayed for two to four months. But I remember my first proper job was at a utensil shop.”
‘Wanted to study, but I couldn’t’
Munawar admitted that he wanted to continue his education, but the circumstances of his life did not allow him to study beyond Class 6. He recalled being among the top students in his class and said that he never felt particularly disappointed about not being able to continue his studies.
“I wanted to study, but I couldn’t. I was very good at studies. I studied till Class 6 and was among the best students in my class. I used to come first. But I never really felt disappointed about not being able to continue because, looking back, I realise how much I enjoy working. I like working so much that I can work every day. I don’t like taking holidays. I enjoy working, earning money and putting in the effort. I don’t get tired of it. People often tell me that I work very hard, but I feel everyone works as much as I do,” he said.
About Munawar Faruqui and his work
Munawar moved to Mumbai from Junagadh in Gujarat as a teenager following the death of his mother. He took up several jobs to support himself and his family before finding his footing in comedy. He gradually built a career through stand-up performances and digital content, eventually becoming a household name after participating in reality television shows.
His win on Lock Upp in 2022 brought him wider recognition, followed by his victory in Bigg Boss 17 in January 2024. He also participated in The Traitors India 2.