In a recent interview, Chittaranjan Tripathy, the Director of the National School of Drama (NSD), spoke candidly about Bollywood’s iconic superstar Shah Rukh Khan. According to Tripathy, Khan’s journey to superstardom began not with films, but with theatre, where he first earned the title of ‘natakwala’ (theatre person). He emphasized that Khan’s dedication to the stage was pivotal in shaping his career before he became the household name known globally today.
Shah Rukh Khan’s Theatre Journey
Tripathy, a renowned actor, director, and theatre professional himself, expressed deep admiration for Khan’s roots in the theatre world. Khan trained under Barry John in Delhi, where he honed his acting skills in theatre productions. Tripathy reflected, “Shah Rukh Khan has done a lot of theatre with Barry John. I consider him a theatre person… I consider him a natakwala first, he is a superstar later.”
This perspective sheds light on Khan’s humble beginnings and how his theatre background contributed to his versatility as an actor. For Tripathy, Khan’s journey is a source of pride, as it highlights how theatre professionals have shaped the world of cinema, bridging both worlds seamlessly.
NSD’s Wish for Shah Rukh Khan’s Visit
Tripathy expressed his hope that Khan would one day visit NSD as a guest, as it would be a moment of pride for the institution. NSD is known for its prestigious alumni, including Naseeruddin Shah, Pankaj Kapur, and the late Irrfan Khan. Tripathy believes that Khan’s visit would inspire young artists currently training at NSD and elevate the stature of the institution, renowned for producing world-class theatre talent.
Shah Rukh Khan’s Meteoric Rise to Fame
After his early days in theatre, Khan made his debut in television and quickly transitioned to Bollywood, where he soon became one of the industry’s most beloved and successful actors. His journey from the stage to the screen underscores the pivotal role of theatre in shaping his acting skills. Known for his immense popularity and global fan following, Khan continues to break records in both the Indian and international film industries.
Source: Web Team, C6N
