The last time they came together, the film industry laughed its guts out with comic flicks like Hero No 1, Coolie No. 1, Raja Babu, and Biwi No. 1. Their reunion now promises to bring much more to the small screen.

News is that former leading lady Karisma Kapoor and director David Dhawan have signed on to judge Hans Baliye, a comedy reality show on Star One.

The two had last collaborated for Chal Mere Bhai in 2000. Thereafter, Karisma got married and left acting to play mommy to a baby girl.

Hans Baliye, which debuts on May 30 in the 8.30 pm slot, is slightly different from its counterparts because it will hunt for the country’s best celebrity comedy couples.

As many as eight couples will vie for the funniest crown including Delnaaz and Rajiv Paul, Tanaaz and Bakhtyaar Irani, Juhi Parmaar and Sachin, and Sara Khan and Ali Merchant.

Dhawan said he was drawn to the show because of its uniqueness. “And of course the comic aspect of the concept. Comedy is something I personally enjoy and watching these couples showcasing their humorous side will surely be a treat to watch,” he said. Dhawan himself is known for his comedies, the latest being Partner, with Govinda, Salman Khan Katrina Kaif and Lara Dutta.

As for Karisma, speculations were rife that she would return to showbiz through the small screen. After ex-rival Raveena Tandon became a judge on Chak De Bachche, her name was linked with many reality shows. She denied them all but Karisma seems to have bitten the bullet with Hans Baliye.

“On Indian television, we have a plethora of reality shows such as talent shows for dancing, singing, etc, but Hans Baliye gives a platform to real life couples to showcase their talent to a wider audience. Making people laugh is not an easy job. It requires a whole lot of dedication and hard work,” she said. Karisma would know. She began her career with slapstick comedies before graduating to more serious roles in films like Zubaidaa and Fiza.