You have seen him on the small and big screens, working alongside actors like Vidya Balan, Shefali Shah, and Ayushmann Khurrana, but Gopal Datt often returns to the theatre to experiment with and explore new roles and ideas. Ask him why, and the Shubh Mangal Saavdhan actor says, “Theatre is completely an actor’s medium, and it gives you a lot.” This is perhaps why the artist is back with Aadyam Theatre’s supernatural thriller, Ankahi, in which he essays the role of Sandeepan Chauhan, about whom he refuses to divulge any details.. But during the interview, the poet and lyricist spoke about his journey, what his almost three-decade-long career has taught him, his love for the stage, his frequent bouts of writer’s block, and more. Read the edited excerpts below:. Q. You have been in the industry for nearly 30 years. How would you describe your journey?. Gopal Datt: It’s fun, that’s the answer! There are many ups and downs, but that’s part of every creative person’s life. I think it’s a fun journey. I met many interesting people, and I still get to work with them. I’m enjoying it!. Q. Despite being a part of Bollywood and the OTT worlds, you remain deeply connected and committed to theatre. What about the medium excites you, and how does Ankahi fulfil that creative need?. Gopal Datt: Theatre is completely an actor’s medium, and it gives you a lot. I mean, I always say theatre is like a lab where you can experiment with lots of ideas. That’s why I think every actor who has done theatre would love to do something new and exciting in every play. Ankahi, by Aadyam Theatre, is again an experimental experience, as it’s a supernatural thriller. And I think it’s happening for the first time in India, this genre and at this scale. So, it’s quite an exciting project for me.. Q. Tell us about your experience playing Sandeepan Chauhan in Ankahi. What drew you to this play?. Gopal Datt: It’s a unique play, and it’s totally different from the other kinds of plays I have done. It involves many technical details and new technologies to work with. Sandeepan Chauhan is a very interesting character. This is all I can say about it right now! Cannot say much at this point… You will have to come and watch Chauhan on stage!. View this post on Instagram. Q. You are well-known for your comic timing, but Ankahi with Aadyam Theatre is a different ballgame. Did this genre test you as an actor in any way?. Gopal Datt: I think as an actor, you always want to take challenges. You also want to test your boundaries. This play gives me the opportunity to challenge myself and step out of my comfort zone, and I am trying. I hope people will like it.. Q. How challenging is it to portray fear, anxiety, and elements of horror live on stage in Ankahi?. Gopal Datt: It’s a well-written play. It’s easy for an actor when the text is well-written. And fear is actually an easier emotion to show; it’s not that complex.. Even in the Natya Shastra, there
