‘Theatre is an experience that never gets old’

Vishakha Pandit (HINDUSTAN TIMES; March 28, 2026)

On World Theatre Day today, Anupam Kher says the stage still unsettles him, in the best way. “Nervousness is still there… I don’t eat on the day of a show, I’m petrified,” admits the 71-year-old, adding that the fear is what keeps him “alive” as an actor.

Calling theatre a necessity, he says, “It takes away the dust that can accumulate… the fear of no retake. Theatre is pure magic.” The direct connection with the audience remains unmatched. “There is nothing in between. You feel palpitation… that means you are alive.”

Now returning to stage with Jaane Pehchaane Anjaane, he emphasises relatability. “I like to do plays where the audience identifies with the story… they should take away something from it.”

With an international tour across the US and Canada planned, Kher believes theatre’s appeal is timeless. “Cultures may differ, but emotions remain the same… it’s an experience that never gets old.”

Despite decades of experience in films, Kher reiterates that theatre remains at the heart of his craft. He shares, “On set, you have multiple takes. Cinema has background music, editing, effects… but theatre keeps you on your toes, not only as an actor but as a person.”

Recalling his early days on stage over 30 years ago, Kher says, “Being on the stage has given me the same amount of thrill as it gave me when I first stepped on it in 1994 for my show Salgirah. That’s why I don’t like being called a veteran or a legend. They’re not supposed to be nervous, but I am.”

At a time when much of entertainment is consumed at home via OTT, he believes theatre continues to thrive as a shared, immersive experience. “You can watch films at home now, but theatre is a family outing. You go out, sit with people, and watch a play together,” he says, adding, “the audience’s feedback is instant, which is great.”

Ask about drawing audiences in changing times, and Kher emphasizes the inherent pull of theatre. “You don’t necessarily need to educate people. You come, you watch, you feel. Theatre is that kind of an experience that never gets old,” he ends.