Pankaj Tripathi says theatre and literature influence him more than Bollywood. In a chat with Filmfare, the actor shared that he avoids film industry trends. He said, “I don’t get influenced by people from the film industry.” He prefers simple stories that focus on kindness, trust, and human connection.
Pankaj Tripathi recently spoke about his approach to acting, the challenges of public attention and his preference for a simple life in an exclusive conversation with Filmfare. The actor, whose latest film Parivarik ManuRanjan co-stars Aditi Rao Hydari, also discussed the film's storytelling, his experience of working with Aditi and the people who have shaped his craft.
Pankaj Tripathi says theatre and literature influence him more than Bollywood: “I don’t get influenced by people from the film industry”
Talking about the film's reception, Tripathi said the makers deliberately chose a simple narrative without unnecessary twists or drama. Explaining the intention behind the story, he said, “We wanted to keep it simple and linear, with no twists or turns.” He added, “For me, it was an attempt to make something that offers comfort.” Explaining why the makers avoided conventional storytelling elements, he said, “Usually, when two people of the opposite gender end up living in the same house, the first assumption is that the story will explore their sexuality and sexual desires. We consciously wanted to avoid that.”
The actor also spoke about the film's underlying message of kindness, forgiveness and mutual respect. He explained that the story consciously avoids the assumptions often associated with two people of opposite genders sharing a home. Instead, it focuses on how strangers gradually develop trust and understanding.
Speaking about the constant attention actors receive in public, Tripathi highlighted how people sometimes overlook their personal circumstances. He said, “People sometimes forget that we are ordinary human beings too. We have our own sorrows, disappointments and moods. We cannot always be happy or available, but we are expected to be present all the time. Sometimes, I find that emotionally difficult. You wonder how much of your own pain you are expected to suppress.”
Recalling his experience of working with Aditi Rao Hydari, Tripathi described her as a sincere and hardworking actor and a wonderful human being. He also shared memories from their Lucknow schedule, including introducing her to Dahi Chura and visiting a local resident named Poonamji, whose traditional home-cooked meals became a memorable part of their shoot.
When asked about the people who have influenced his acting, Tripathi made it clear that his inspiration comes primarily from theatre and literature. “I don't think I have had any such conversations with people from the film industry. I have been much more influenced by my theatre teachers. Show minimum, create maximum.” He said the philosophy continues to influence his minimalistic approach to acting.
The actor also shared his understanding of an alpha man, explaining that leadership need not involve aggression. “A leader can be polite, thoughtful and considerate,” he said, adding that someone can lead without relying on stereotypical alpha qualities.
Reflecting on his motivation, Tripathi said he does not necessarily draw inspiration from box-office success or his bank balance. “My motivation comes from within. I don't necessarily draw motivation from a film's success or my bank balance. I find it in nature and in the little things around me. I have EMIs to pay, and sometimes I remind myself that if I don't work, how will I pay the bank instalments?,” he said filmfare.
The actor further admitted that he does not chase publicity and would prefer a quieter life. “I have become fairly well-known now, but sometimes I wish I could go back to being unknown,” he said. He added that once his expenses are taken care of, he would rather travel, cook, spend time in the jungle and enjoy a simple life.