In a bid to make theatre more accessible and popular across all sections of society, renowned actor Pankaj Tripathi, the Festival Ambassador of this year’s Bharat Rang Mahotsav, is on a mission to spread awareness about the art of stage performance. Tripathi, famous for his role as Kaleenbhaiya in Mirzapur, emphasizes the unique training experience that happens on stage and believes it is incomparable to any other form of artistic expression.

“There are 13 ways to express yourself while just using your neck. It was written 2,000 years ago but became viral only now because of memes,” says Tripathi, referencing a meme featuring his character. Aspiring actors can now learn from the best, as Tripathi aims to inspire and guide individuals interested in becoming stage performers.

The actor’s call to action comes in conjunction with the upcoming National School Of Drama’s theatre festival, the Bharat Rang Mahotsav, scheduled to unfold from February 1 to 21 across 15 cities in India. The festival, a significant event for those seeking inspiration and guidance in the field, will feature over 150 performances, workshops, masterclasses, and discussions.

The opening ceremony, set to take place at Mumbai’s NCPA, will kick off with the play “Humare Ram,” featuring NSD alumnus Ashutosh Rana. This year’s festival revolves around the theme “Vaudhaiva Kutumbakam, Vande Bharangam,” with a focus on fostering global unity among thespians and artists.

Smita Thackeray’s Mukti Foundation joins hands with Bharat Rang Mahotsav to mark their 25th year milestone. Thackeray, sharing her longstanding connection with theatre, expresses her deep-rooted interest in the art form. She adds, “Rangmanch se humme bachpan se tarluk tha, mujhe bahut ruchi thi. Yeh alag baat hai ki mujhe mauka nahin mila” (I have been associated with theatre since childhood, and was always interested in it. But I never got an opportunity).

Tripathi, along with National School Of Drama Director Chittaranjan Tripathi, is determined to make plays more popular and draw people from all walks of life to witness the magic of live art. As the Festival Ambassador, Pankaj Tripathi’s involvement adds a touch of star power to the celebration of theatre, encouraging aspiring artists to explore the unique and enriching world of stage performances.

As February approaches, theatre enthusiasts and those seeking artistic inspiration are urged to participate in Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2024, where the magic of live art and the wisdom of seasoned performers promise an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into the world of theatre and witness the power of expression on the stage!

Pankaj Tripathi’s Top 10 Must-Watch Movies

Pankaj Tripathi, a powerhouse of talent in the Indian film industry, has captivated audiences with his versatile performances across various genres. From intense dramas to quirky comedies, Tripathi has left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 movies that showcase the brilliance of this exceptional actor.

1. Gangs of Wasseypur (2012): An epic crime saga directed by Anurag Kashyap, where Pankaj Tripathi played the menacing Sultan Qureshi, showcasing his ability to portray complex characters with ease.
2. Newton (2017): In this black comedy-drama, Tripathi portrayed a cynical but humorous government clerk, adding depth and humor to the film that revolves around the Indian electoral system.
3. Stree (2018): A horror-comedy that became a surprise hit, Tripathi’s role as the mysterious Rudra was a delightful addition, blending humor and suspense seamlessly.
4. Ludo (2020): An anthology film directed by Anurag Basu, where Pankaj Tripathi‘s portrayal of a lovable, cunning gangster named Sattu Bhai added a perfect dose of humor and unpredictability.
5. Masaan (2015): In this critically acclaimed drama, Tripathi had a brief but impactful role, leaving a lasting impression with his nuanced performance.
6. Mirzapur (2018–Present): Tripathi’s iconic role as Kaleen Bhaiya in this web series has become synonymous with his excellence in portraying characters with shades of grey.
7. Kaagaz (2021): In this biographical drama, Tripathi played the role of Lal Bihari, a man declared dead on official documents, delivering a heartfelt performance that tugged at the audience’s emotions.
8. Criminal Justice: Behind Closed Doors (2020): Tripathi’s portrayal of Advocate Madhav Mishra in this legal thriller web series earned him acclaim for his ability to bring depth to his characters.
9. Bareilly Ki Barfi (2017): A delightful romantic comedy where Tripathi played the role of Bitti’s father, showcasing his versatility by effortlessly switching between intense and light-hearted roles.
10. Gurgaon (2017): In this neo-noir thriller, Tripathi delivered a powerful performance as a real estate tycoon, highlighting his ability to excel in diverse cinematic genres.