Theatre Is an Actorâs Movement Says Manoj Bajpayee

By javedkhanui7 Mar 28, 2026 0

Manoj Bajpayee is known for his powerful performances in films like Satya, Gangs of Wasseypur and Aligarh, where his intense and nuanced acting has left a lasting impact. Before films, his journey began in theatre with Barry John, where he learnt the craft and understood acting in a thorough manner. Theatre played an important role in shaping his craft and discipline. Even today, he often talks about his deep understanding of acting and thanks his theatre days for it.

In an exclusive interview with Filmfare, Manoj spoke extensively about his theatre days. He revealed, “Theatre is an actor’s movement. Actors are on stage without any editing, colour correction, sound editing or background music to elevate their performance. You are there for a few hours on stage without any exterior help. So, theatre actors have to work hard on their craft, their physical self, mental self and whole self. To hold that, much of the time, you have to be fully prepared physically, mentally, emotionally and know that there is no other way to work on the craft.”

He further added, “I would also advise and request all the newcomers to know theatre. To do that for at least 2 to 3 years and then come into the demanding business of cinema. Because in the cinema when they start working in films, they are not expecting you to learn on the job, they are expecting you to deliver. Theatre prepares you to deal with all the problems when coming to the cinema.”

The Gulmohar actor lives for acting. Talking about his craft he says that “acting takes me [him] into another zone.” He also reveals that he feels most alive when he is reading a good script, rehearsing or facing the camera.

On the professional front, Manoj Bajpayee was recently seen in Jugnuma, Family Man Season 3 and action-thriller Inspector Zende.

Also Read: Paresh Rawal calls new Akshay Kumar–Manoj Bajpayee pairing unique as Govinda exits Bhagam Bhag 2