8 iconic artists who made the leap from theatre to Bollywood

From the wooden stages where voices echo in the rooms, to the big screens where retakes are a common phenomenon, the world of theatre and Bollywood are distinct and yet similar. And in both fields, the importance is given to the audience and the message. Theatre artists speak their hearts, perform for the people, touch on sensitive subjects, and what they do once is etched into people’s minds. Bollywood on the other hand gives a little wiggle room, a lot more money, and of course, much more fame. And so, the switch from theatre to big screens is a wish for many artists and some also make it come true! Here we mention 8 iconic artists who made the leap from theatre to Bollywood.

One of the most iconic artists from the Theatre genre who made the leap to Bollywood is Naseeruddin Shah. He started his days with the National School of Drama (NSD) and Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), and was a student of the legendary director Ebrahim Alkazi, the man famous as the Father of Indian Theatre.Shah is famous for his versatile persona and intense performances that can induce goosebumps in people. His performance in movies and even web series is simply commendable and unmatchable.

(Image: naseeruddin49)

Manoj Bajpyee, a man who needs no introduction, was a student of the Barry John group in Delhi. And although some of the most famous Theatre artists in Bollywood are from NSD, Bajpayee was rejected by the School 4 times!Bajpayee’s breakthrough came with the movie ‘Satya’, where his portrayal of Bhiku Mhatre was widely appreciated by critics and supporters alike. Bajpayee brings a very raw and real side to Bollywood which is loved by people, and feels relatable too. (Image: bajpayee.manoj/Instagram)

A legendary actor, Om Puri started his theatre journey in NSD and FTII and then moved to Bollywood where he became famous for his rough and intense persona. He became known for his powerful, intense performances, and his dedication to realistic roles. With movies like ‘Aakrosh’, ‘Ardh Satya’, and more, he became an icon of the Bollywood and Theatre world.

(Image: @OmRajeshPuri/Instagram)

The beauty who rules both Bollywood and Theatre even today, Shabana Azmi did not make it to NSD, but was a part of FTII, Pune. Her expressions that were a blend of tender and fierce, her versatile persona, and her powerful acts made her a famous name in both genres.She got her big Bollywood break with the movie ‘Ankur’, and then ‘Arth’ made her a go-to for the portrayal of complex female characters.(Image: azmishabana18/Instagram)

Another iconic and versatile actor who began his journey in NSD, Pankaj Tripathi is loved and appreciated in both circuits today. He has a strong screen presence and has the persona of a raw, relatable man whose dialogue delivery makes him simply versatile. Tripathi had his Bollywood calling and fame with his role in ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’, and then the hit web series ‘Mirzapur’. (Image: pankajtripathi/Instagram)

The heart of the Indian audience, Piyush Mishra is one of the most versatile artists from NSD. He was a part of many theatre groups not just as an actor and performer, but also as a playwright and lyricist.
Mishra too shot to fame with his role in ‘Maqbool’, ‘Gulaal’, and ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’, and then his hit songs like ‘Aarambh hai Prachand’, ‘Husna’, ‘Ik Bagal’, and more made him an audience favourite.(Image: officialpiyushmishra/Instagram)

Bollywood’s King Khan, Shah Rukh Khan too was a theatre actor before making it big in Bollywood. He was a contemporary of Manoj Bajpayee, and they were together in Barry John’s theatre group.
Khan made his Bollywood debut with ‘Deewana’ and quickly rose to fame with his roles, his charisma, his personality, and of course, his looks. He brought a new level of energy and commitment to Bollywood which pays off even today.(Image:iamsrk/Instagram)

One of the most underrated actors who made the leap from Theatre to Bollywood is Saurabh Shukla. And not many know that Shukla is not just an actor but also a screenwriter. His performances are wholesome, impactful, powerful, and his screen presence is simply amazing. From his work in ‘Satya’ to his role in ‘Jolly LLB’ and ‘Stree’, his versatility is exceptional and commendable for he knows how to perfectly balance humour, drama, and more in his act. (Image: saurabhshuklafilms/Instagram)