Global comedy meets local laughter: Sundeep and Anand to explore SA's Stand Up scene on debut tour
Internet sensation Sundeep Fernandes and Anand Raman are hoping to explore the local comedy scene during their downtime, collaborate with South African comics and take in some tourist sites.
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SOUTH AFRICA's comedy lovers are in for a treat as two of Dubai’s fastest-rising comedy stars, Sundeep Fernandes and Anand Raman, bring their unique brand of humour to local stages for the first time.
The viral duo whose videos have racked up hundreds of millions of views across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube will perform in Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg from November 7 to 15.
Fernandes and Raman’s short, punchy clips tackle everything from workplace frustrations and modern love to pop culture and identity, earning them fans across continents.
“We’ve had South African fans messaging us for ages,” laughed Raman, known for his laid-back delivery. “At this point, it was either visit or risk them thinking we had something personal against the country.”
“A clip can make you laugh but an hour-long show can make you forget your problems. There’s nothing like that live connection with a crowd," said Raman.
His comedy partner, Fernandes, brings high energy and animated storytelling to the stage. “South Africa has one of the most vibrant comedy cultures in the world. We’re thrilled to perform for audiences that truly love good comedy and can’t wait to explore such a beautiful country,” said Fernandes.
Their global rise has been powered by short form video, a format tailor-made for today’s quick-scrolling audiences. Yet, both comedians remain passionate about the craft of live stand-up.
“With online, you build audiences everywhere at once. Now we finally get to meet the South African fans who’ve been tagging their cousins in our videos. Please, keep tagging, comedy runs on cousin energy", added Fernandes.
Both comedians draw on their experiences as part of the global Indian diaspora, blending cultural insight with modern absurdities to deliver sharp, relatable humour that resonates across borders.
Outside the spotlight, Fernandes and Raman plan to dive into the local comedy scene, meet South African comics, and take in a few sights.
“We’re excited to see Table Mountain, go on safari, and finally find out what this ‘bunny chow’ is all about,” said Fernandes.
The tour kicks off in Cape Town on November 7 and 8 November at Protea Hotel Fire & Ice, before heading to Umhlanga, Durban on November 9. The final shows will take place in Johannesburg on November 14 and 15 at Fire & Ice Melrose Arch. Tickets available at Quicket.