March 27th marks World Theatre Day, a celebration of the powerful and transformative art form that has been a source of storytelling, expression, and cultural heritage for centuries. It is a day to honor the impact of theatre on the world, acknowledging its role in shaping society and giving voice to diverse narratives. The day also serves as a reminder of how theatre has paved the way for many actors, particularly in Bollywood, who have transitioned from stage to screen, carrying with them the depth and passion of live performances.
Before becoming the bustling film industry it is today, Bollywood was deeply rooted in the art of theatre. The live stage acted as a training ground for actors, honing their skills in expressions, voice modulation, and physicality. The stage was where many Bollywood actors first experienced the thrill of performing, developing a strong foundation in dramatic arts, which later influenced their performances in films.
Let’s take a look at the journeys of some Bollywood actors who began their careers in theatre and went on to become major stars:
Shabana Azmi
One of India's most respected and celebrated actresses, Shabana Azmi, began her career in theatre before making a name for herself in Bollywood. Her work in the theatre, particularly with the renowned director Rishi Kapoor, helped shape her into the versatile actress she became. Azmi was part of theatre groups such as Kalyanji Anandji and IPTA (Indian People's Theatre Association). Her stage performances not only built her acting technique but also helped her gain an understanding of emotional depth, something that greatly influenced her film career. Her roles in films like Ankur, Arth, and Katha reflect the emotional intensity she honed on stage.
Naseeruddin Shah
Naseeruddin Shah is a name that is synonymous with powerful, impactful acting in Indian cinema. However, before he became one of Bollywood's finest actors, he was deeply involved in theatre. As a member of the NSD (National School of Drama), Shah's early years were spent on the stage, experimenting with character roles, which helped him perfect his craft. Shah worked with theatre greats like Ebrahim Alkazi and was part of plays that covered a wide range of topics. His theatre training helped him bring a level of realism and raw emotion to his Bollywood roles in films like A Wednesday, Masoom, and Iqbal.
Om Puri
Om Puri's journey from theatre to film is both inspirational and a testament to the power of stage training. Before becoming a Bollywood icon, Puri was heavily involved in theatre, having performed with the Indian National Theatre and the Theatre Group. His performances in plays like Ghashiram Kotwal and Aadhe Adhure established his strong presence on stage. Puri’s transition into cinema was seamless, with his theatre experience giving him the depth and intensity that became his trademark in films like Ardh Satya, Bhago Bhoot and Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro.
Raj Kumar Rao
Rajkummar Rao, one of Bollywood's most critically acclaimed actors, began his acting career in theatre before making his mark in films. Trained at the F.T.I.I. (Film and Television Institute of India), he was also a member of the Naseeruddin Shah's Motley Theatre Group. His exposure to theatre allowed him to explore different genres, emotions, and characters, which prepared him for a varied film career. His performances in movies like Shahid, Queen, Bareilly Ki Barfi, and Stree are a testament to his deep-rooted theatrical training, helping him bring authenticity and subtlety to each role.
Pankaj Tripathi
Pankaj Tripathi's rise to fame has been one of the most remarkable stories in recent Bollywood history. Known for his impeccable acting skills, Tripathi’s career began in theatre. He trained at the National School of Drama (NSD) in Delhi, where he learned to embrace various aspects of performance, from body language to vocal techniques. His time in theatre shaped his grounded, nuanced performances in films like Newton, Gangs of Wasseypur, and Mirzapur. It’s his theatre background that allows him to stay true to the essence of his characters, bringing them to life with intensity and simplicity.
Manoj Bajpayee
Manoj Bajpayee is yet another actor whose career was significantly influenced by his theatre experience. Bajpayee, who had a passion for acting from an early age, honed his skills at NSD before moving to Mumbai. His theatre experience allowed him to immerse himself in different styles of acting, laying the groundwork for his performances in films like Satya, Gully Boy, and The Family Man. Bajpayee’s rawness and emotional depth, which are evident in his performances, are a direct result of the years he spent on stage.
