Mumbai, June 10, 2025 — After a long-awaited hiatus, the original laughter catalyst of Indian television, Navjot Singh Sidhu, has made a roaring comeback to the much-loved comedy talk show The Great Indian Kapil Show, now in its third season on Netflix. The news has stirred waves of excitement among fans, who fondly remember Sidhu’s infectious laughter and poetic one-liners that once defined the show’s unique flavour.
Kapil Sharma, the show’s host and creator, welcomed Sidhu on the premiere episode of Season 3, which aired on June 9. With his signature flamboyance, Sidhu returned to his iconic "Shers" and wisecracks, reigniting the electric chemistry that made the earlier seasons of the show a household phenomenon.
Speaking during a behind-the-scenes segment, Kapil expressed his delight: “Navjot Paaji’s presence brings back the soul of our show. His laughter is timeless, and so is his charisma.” {source, wikipedia}
Sidhu, who had been away from regular TV appearances due to political commitments and health concerns, said he was “overjoyed to be back among friends and laughter,” calling the comeback his “homecoming to joy.” {source, youtube/ The Hindu}
Backdrop: The Pulwama Controversy (Feb 2019)
After the Pulwama attack that claimed the lives of CRPF soldiers, Sidhu said:
“It is a cowardly act … violence is always condemnable … For a handful of people, can you blame the entire nation?”
{source, news24online}
The remarks triggered widespread criticism and calls for a boycott, prompting the channel to demand his removal from the show.
On The Grain Talk Show’s YouTube channel, Sidhu talked about his time on the show. In 2019, he was replaced by Archana Puran Singh as The Kapil Sharma Show's permanent guest. There had been speculations that he was sacked by the channel due to his controversial remarks on the Pulwama terror attacks. Neither confirming nor denying it, Sidhu said, “There were political reasons I don’t want to talk about. There were other reasons… and the bouquet fell apart. I have a wish that that bouquet must get together again, the way it was. I will be the first to facilitate. His show is still doing very well. Kapil is a genius.” {source, hindustantimes}
/*A Resurgent Cast and Format*/
Season 3 also features regulars like Kiku Sharda, Krushna Abhishek, Archana Puran Singh, and Sunil Grover, with a revamped international guest format. Sidhu’s return marks a subtle shift from scripted gags back to the show's original, unscripted spark that audiences missed.
/*Fan Frenzy and Digital Buzz*/
Social media platforms lit up with nostalgic posts, fan edits, and trending hashtags like #SidhuIsBack and #KapilShowSeason3 within hours of the announcement. YouTube clips from the first episode featuring Sidhu garnered over 3 million views within 24 hours.
/*Looking Ahead*/
With Sidhu back in the chair that became synonymous with his persona, The Great Indian Kapil Show 3 is expected to not only reclaim its top streaming slot but also set a new benchmark in digital comedy entertainment.
Sidhu signed off the episode with his trademark flourish: "Thoko taali! Jahan laughter hai, wahan Sidhu hai!" – and the nation, once again, couldn’t help but clap along.