World Theatre Day is an annual celebration that honors the enchanting world of theatre, a realm where narratives come to life in their most authentic form, and performers grasp the true art of acting. Long before the rise of cinema and digital media, numerous Bollywood stars honed their skills on stage, embracing the discipline, vulnerability, and hard work that theatre demands.

As we commemorate World Theatre Day, the journeys of these actors remind us that every compelling performance on screen is often built on years of commitment, frequently originating from the close-knit environment of the stage. From the challenges faced behind the curtains to the applause of the audience, these performers demonstrate that theatre is not merely a stepping stone but a foundational aspect of their careers.

Let’s explore some actors who have undergone professional theatre training and carried that experience into their film careers:

Pankaj Tripathi: Renowned as one of the finest actors of his generation, Pankaj Tripathi embarked on his theatre journey in 1996 in Patna, juggling rehearsals with night shifts in a hotel kitchen. His dedication led him to the esteemed National School of Drama, after which he relocated to Mumbai in 2004. After years of hard work and over 40 minor roles, he achieved fame with Gangs of Wasseypur.

Ali Fazal: Before becoming an international star, Ali Fazal's acting career began on stage during his school years at The Doon School. An injury from basketball prompted him to delve into acting, where he took on roles such as Trinculo in The Tempest. He further honed his skills in Mumbai and through theatre initiatives like Thespo, establishing a solid foundation before moving into films and series.

Richa Chadha: Richa Chadha's acting foundation was built in professional theatre after she initially pursued modeling. She trained under the esteemed theatre director Barry John and participated in numerous plays across India. This extensive stage experience paved the way for her film debut in Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!.

Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia: Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia's artistic path began with theatre, where she trained for over 15 years, including at the Atelier School of Dramatic Arts. She later gained fame after winning Femina Miss Manipur and starring in the popular TV series Choti Sarrdaarni.

Shweta Tripathi: After studying fashion communication at the National Institute of Fashion Technology, Shweta Tripathi discovered her passion for theatre. She joined a troupe in Mumbai and even established her own company, All My Tea Productions. Prior to her breakout role in Masaan, she worked behind the scenes and in television, gradually refining her craft.

Lisa Mishra: Known for her musical prowess, Lisa Mishra also has a background in theatre. With experience in musical theatre, she recently returned to the stage after a 15-year hiatus, following her screen debut in Call Me Bae. Her journey showcases a harmonious blend of music, performance, and storytelling.

Akshay Oberoi: Akshay Oberoi's acting career commenced at Mumbai's renowned Prithvi Theatre. Under the guidance of theatre veteran Makrand Deshpande, he began backstage before taking on roles in plays like Miss Beautiful. He furthered his education in Theatre Arts at Johns Hopkins University and trained internationally, enriching his craft.

Gulshan Devaiah: Before making his mark in films, Gulshan Devaiah was actively involved in Bengaluru's English theatre scene, collaborating with groups like Forum Three. After spending a decade in the fashion industry, he transitioned to films and gained recognition with Shaitan.