Home is where 2 BHK is

Anyone who has lived in Mumbai — regardless of where they came from — have faced the challenge of finding themselves a decent abode that feels like home, no matter how successful they are professionally. Stand up comedian Punit Pania, who is no stranger to these trials and tribulations of house-hunting, is putting that struggle of finding the right house, in a stage show called Mission 2 BHK.

The man behind Chalta Hai Comedy, explains that this show is the story of every person in their late 20s and early 30s in Mumbai. “No matter how well you’re doing in life, you will face this issue,” Punit explains with a sigh. “Even if you manage to buy yourself a flat, the EMIs go on for 30 years, and you slave off your entire life to make this happen.”

The comedian laughs as he talks about how hard hit the current generation is when it comes to finding a decent roof over their heads. “The home factor also affects your eligibility and standing in the marriage market,” he guffaws. “It’s like an extra qualification that you need to be in the market, alongside that regulation MBA that is a must for anyone nowadays.”

While Punit himself is from Mumbai, he still identifies with the kind of troubles one goes through while trying to find a flat in Mumbai, and feels very passionately about how the cramped city is starved for decent sized houses that afford you privacy and comfort. “You know, your entire life revolves around this; it becomes a routine,” he rants. “Instead of relaxing or going out on weekends, you’re house hunting in some remote location, and are constantly on the calculator, working out the figures, even if they’re beyond you.”

He adds, “And these buildings are bound to be under construction and look nothing like they’re supposed to at the end of the construction. Then you’ll have the broker making you imagine ‘yahan pe yeh view aayega’. Passing off a matchbox house as a 2 BHK is the worst move too. The bathrooms are so small you can sit on the commode and wash your face in the sink at the same time! Not to mention no playgrounds, and open spaces taken over for parking.”

Punit says that these struggles are part of the manuscript he’s written and adapted for stage. And while the comic’s act is centre point of the show, he brings on board a new opening act every time it’s performed. This time around, Pune-based stand up comedian Mandar Bhide will be part of Punit’s house-hunting rib tickler.

On February 25, at 6.30 pm, at The Barking Deer, Lower Parel. Entry: Rs 350, including a craft beer or mocktail.