Heavy metal band had comedian Nish Kumar on the run at the Edinburgh Fringe

NISH KUMAR has had plenty of acclaim and risen through the ranks to become one of our top comics.

But ahead of a double bill of BBC shows this week, Nish says he’s been through plenty of tough times, too.

“This is my 12th year at the Edinburgh Fringe, so at a month a time, that’s a full year of my life,” Nish told iN10.

“I’ve seen all sorts. One occasion I’ll always remember is being chased off stage by a Scottish heavy metal band.

“It was a mixed bill of comedy and music and it was over-running horribly.

“By the time I got on, it was well into the slot that the band were due and they weren’t messing about.

“There was quite a big audience and I think they were looking forward to seeing the band beat up this comic.”

Nish will be hosting BBC2’s festival round-up for the next three Friday nights. And for the first two he’ll be doubling up by introducing The Big Asian Stand-Up.

Filmed at the famous City Varieties Music Hall in Leeds, it showcases a new wave of Asian comedic talent.

“I’ve been doing this since 2007 and in that time there has been a real explosion of Asian comedians,” said Nish. “It’s great to see such a vibrant scene.”

Nish will be in Edinburgh for the rest of the month and he says the Scottish capital has a huge place in his heart.

“It has been absolutely essential for me,” he adds. “I wouldn’t have a career without it.

“When I’m not doing my own act I go round lots of shows just to see what other people are doing.

“But you never ever steal anybody’s material, not even their worst joke.”

The Big Asian Stand-Up BBC 2 Fri, 10pm, Edinburgh Nights, Fri, 11.05pm.