Pankaj Tripathi Says Watching Daughter Aashi Perform Takes Him Back to His Struggling Days
Actor says watching Aashi rehearse and perform reminds him of his own early theatre days.
Mumbai, Nov 17 : Bollywood’s acclaimed actor Pankaj Tripathi is returning to his theatrical roots—this time with his entire family by his side. The actor and his wife Mridula Tripathi have launched their new theatre banner, Roopkatha Rangmanch, and their debut production, a musical comedy titled ‘Lailaaj’, marks a special milestone: the stage debut of their daughter, Aashi Tripathi.
Pankaj shared the emotional significance of the moment, saying, “Seeing Aashi perform for the first time on stage fills me with pride. As a father, it’s emotional; as an actor, it’s a responsibility; and as a producer, it’s an excitement I can’t describe. Watching her rehearse, stumble, learn, and finally shine takes me back to my own early days on stage.”
He added that Aashi’s debut is not just a family celebration but a tribute to the magic of theatre itself. “Theatre is where an artist truly discovers the craft. I hope audiences embrace Lailaaj with the same warmth and curiosity they have shown me throughout my career.”
For Pankaj and Mridula, Roopkatha Rangmanch is also a nostalgic return to where it all began. “My journey started on stage with borrowed costumes, chaotic backstage moments, and the thrill of a live audience. Those years taught me discipline and emotion. Lailaaj is our offering to that world.”
Directed, written, and musically composed by Faiz Mohammed Khan, Lailaaj blends humour, music, and heart. Pankaj said the choice of a musical comedy for their first production was deliberate: “We wanted something joyful and universally relatable. Faiz has created something funny and full of life.”
‘Lailaaj’ will be staged on November 21, 22, and 23 at Rangshila Theatre in Mumbai.
