Zakir Khan Reveals Real Reason Behind His Break From Live Shows: "Need To Take Care Of My Health..."

For years, stand-up comedian Zakir Khan lived out of suitcases, airports, green rooms, and packed auditoriums, rarely slowing down as his comedy found fans across cities and continents. Now, the stand-up star has decided to pause at that relentless pace. And the reason, he says, is simple and serious: his health.

Zakir Khan's Decision To Pause Live Shows:

After recently announcing an extended break from stand-up comedy, Zakir has opened up about what pushed him to step back. In a candid interview with Gulf News, the comedian revealed that long-standing health concerns, including genetic illnesses in his family, played a key role in his decision.

"I Need To Take Care Of My Health..."

Speaking about why the break became unavoidable, Zakir explained that his body has been under strain for years. “I need to take care of my health. There are certain genetic illnesses in my family that tend to surface after a particular age. On top of that, I've damaged my body myself, sleeping for just two hours and then going on to meet thousands of people. Because the moment you land in a city, you immediately start meeting people," Zakir said.

Photo Credit: Instagram

The pressure, he admitted, was not just physical but emotional as well. As the first person in his family to reach this level of success, he felt a responsibility to keep going without pause. That sense of duty, he shared, made him put work above everything else for nearly a decade.

Zakir described how the realisation hit him during a tour last year, when he understood that balancing health and work was no longer possible. “When you keep your foot on the accelerator for ten straight years, the body is bound to take a hit. So I initially thought I'd manage health alongside work. But last year, when we were in the US, I realised that it wouldn't be possible to do both together. That's when I made this decision," he added.

Clearing the 2030 Confusion:

A viral clip from his Hyderabad show recently sparked concern among fans, as Zakir was heard saying he would stay away from stand-up until around 2030. He later clarified that the remark was specific to Hyderabad, explaining that once he takes a break and eventually resumes work, it will take time before he returns to the city.

Zakir had first announced his extended break during a live show in Hyderabad, part of his ongoing Papa Yaar Tour. Addressing the audience, he said the break could last several years, possibly until 2028, 2029, or even 2030, after completing existing commitments. “It will be a break of three, four, or five years to take care of my health and to sort out a few other things. Everyone present here tonight is very close to my heart. Your presence means more to me than you can imagine, and I will always be grateful to all of you. Thank you so much," Zakir said.