Shah Rukh Khan, Shabana Azmi to Sharman Joshi: 7 Bollywood Actors Who Rose from Theater

Bollywood features actors who have imported their acting skills from the stage theaters, even as writers and directors on the big screen. Each time they are on the big screens, they’ve managed to leave audiences impressed with their understanding of the craft. Here’s looking at some of the best Bollywood actors who rose from theater.

Shah Rukh Khan: During his time at the Delhi University, Shah Rukh Khan was a theater actor. He studied under Barry John when he was a part of the Theatre Action Group. And today, he’s one of the most beloved and successful Bollywood actors.

Shabana Azmi: Everytime there’s a conversation about great actors, the 5-time National Award-winning actress Shabana Azmi’s name pops up. Not just the bigger canvas, she’s equally versatile on the stage, having acted in memorable plays like Safed Kundali, Tumhari Amrita and A Doll’s House.

Sharman Joshi: Sharman Joshi comes from a family with a theatrical background. His father, Arvind Joshi was a noted theater and film actor. Initially, Sharman ventured into theater to hone his acting skills before making his mark as a substantial actor with films like Dhol, Golmaal, Style, Rang De Basanti, Life in a Metro, 3 Idiots and others.

Manoj Bajpayee: Ever since Manoj Bajpayee was a kid, he wanted to act. And once he arrived in Delhi for college education, he knew what to do. Despite being rejected by the NSD, Manoj Bajpayee started in theater with the backing of Barry John.

Pankaj Tripathi: Started his journey from the NSD, Pankaj Tripathi is recognized as one of the most versatile actors of today. He had his Bollywood calling and fame with his role in the cult film Gangs of Wasseypur and the hit series Mirzapur.

Nawazuddin Siddiqui: A talented gem from NSD, Nawazuddin Siddiqui went through the grind for quite some time before the lovers of good acting noticed him. After graduating from NSD, Nawazuddin Siddiqui worked alongside Saurabh Shukla and Manoj Bajpayee with the Sakshi Theatre Group.

Paresh Rawal: Paresh Rawal used to act in plays in many languages when he was a student at Narsee Monjee College. For someone who was a regular at the Prithvi Theatre, some of his famous work is Khelaiya , Dear Father and Krishan vs Kanhaiya.

Which of these actors are your favourites?