While often portrayed as serious, Greek Goddesses like Aphrodite had a mischievous twinkle in her eye. As Hesiod wrote in his ‘Theogony’, Aphrodite was “born of the sea foam, a thing of beauty and desire,” her influence often led to comical chaos. Roman women were just than Bread and circuses. The poet Juvenal satirized Roman society including women’s roles suggesting wit and humor among them and their everyday lives. They always found ways to laugh.  

Life got a bit more interesting for women in the 19th century. Sure, jobs were popping up left and right, but it wasn’t always a picnic. Women were often treated unfairly, getting paid peanuts compared to the guys. Women started finding funny ways to deal with the situation. As the American humorist Artemus Ward once said, “I have never seen a woman who could tell a good story.” While this seems derogatory, it also suggests that women were developing their comedic voices, even if they were not always recognized. 

The 20th century marked a turning point for women in comedy. Figures like Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, and Phyllis Diller shattered glass ceilings and redefined the role of women in entertainment. As Ball famously said, "I'd rather regret the things I've done than the things I haven't." This just isn't confined to Western shores. In India, too, women like Indira Joshi, with her sharp wit and impeccable timing, have carved a niche for themselves in the comedy scene. Her ability to seamlessly blend observational humor with social commentary has resonated with audiences across generations.