Actor-comedian Vir Das created history as the first Indian to host the International Emmys in New York and his monologue has grabbed attention, in which he mocked OTT giant Elon Musk and trolled actor Will Smith. A day after the prestigious ceremony, Vir Das shared his opening monologue, where he humorously remarked that the only Indian name Americans know is “Raj”. He also joked about being offered the role of a character called “British Raj”.

“It’s great to be here completely legally. I’m not a citizen here. It’s a very quick trip, in and out. I just came here to vote. Before we start the show, I have to Must say politely. My accent is Indian and it depends on where I’m traveling, so if I say something you don’t understand tonight, I want you to feel free to Go and ask your boss tomorrow.” Veer said in his monologue.

The awards were not telecast live in India. However, this was not the first time at the Emmys for Vir Das. In 2023, Vir Das, known for his sharp wit, won an award for his Netflix show Landing.

He said in his monologue, “And if your boss is not Indian, your boss is the boss. Tonight is a celebration of the world. We tell original diverse international stories, which Hollywood has remade in Cash Cows with Kevin Hart and Liam Neeson. Have done.”

“Some of you may be discovered tonight. This time next year, you may be on an American TV show. Maybe your name is Hatsuko or Sir Kill, but in America you’ll play Guy, Joe. And if you’re Indian, Raj is the only name Americans know. I was offered Doctor Raj, Banker Raj, Engineer Raj, whose name was literally British Raj, I don’t want to keep it, but All major platforms are here today Night. And, politely, I think next year, one of you should actually put this show on the air,” he said.

Ahead, Veer also took a dig at Will Smith’s infamous Oscar slap US government regarding the incident and sanctions at the Oscar ceremony. After the outbreak of Ukraine war, America has imposed sanctions on many countries including Iran, North Korea, China, Russia.

“Who does Will Smith have to slap tonight to get our attention, guys? I’m kidding. We’re foreigners. You can’t kill foreigners with nothing but sanctions. Sorry, tariffs. Before I Going on, a little bit of housekeeping. I’ve been asked to tell you that if you win an award tonight, you only have 30 seconds on this stage, and that’s enough to congratulate those people. Time More than those you like, if you can’t please them.” he said.

“But if you come on this platform, please do not come on this platform and say anything divisive, offensive or inflammatory because this is America and you will be elected. Sorry. Expelled. Forgive me. Expelled. Given. I’m so sorry. Tonight we pick winners. And America, you picked your winners.”

He also took a witty dig at tech giant Elon Musk, who has been picked by US President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

“You’ve chosen someone who will lead you, make all your decisions, and be the most powerful person in the world, and I think you’ve made a good choice. Yes. He says random things, but he’s intelligent, successful, and Elon Musk is a legend guys, do you think Elon Musk sees the presidency the same way he sees Tesla? I have control. All I’m saying is keep Elon Musk happy, okay? He’ll buy your platform and turn it into a podcast,” Vir Das said.

The 2024 International Emmy Awards were held at the New York Hilton Midtown in New York City. The program showcased a variety of talent, with Emmy-winning comedian Vir Das serving as host. Notable attendees included The Night Manager team, including showrunner Sandeep Modi and actor Aditya Roy Kapur, who were nominated in the Drama Series category.