Ashutosh Rana Graces Delhi Stage After 27 Years, Fondly Recalls Kamani Performance in 1994
Ashutosh Rana Triumphant Return to the Delhi Stage After Decades
After a hiatus of three decades, renowned actor Ashutosh Rana finds himself back in the spotlight, stepping onto the stage to portray the iconic character of Ravana in a theatrical production. Renowned for his compelling performances in villainous roles on the silver screen, Rana’s latest venture marks a significant departure as he delves deeper into the complexities of grey-shaded characters through the realm of theatre.
Reflecting on his journey, Rana reminisces about his formative years at the National School of Drama (NSD), where he nurtured his passion for the performing arts. “The last time I graced the stage of Kamani Auditorium in Delhi was in 1994, during my days as a student at NSD. Now, three decades later, I find myself returning to where it all began. It feels as though life has come full circle,” shares Rana, brimming with nostalgia and anticipation for the forthcoming performance of the play “Humare Ram.”
For Rana, the opportunity to portray the enigmatic character of Ravana holds special significance, harking back to his childhood dreams of participating in the Ramleela festivities of his hometown, Gadarwara, Madhya Pradesh. “I always harbored a desire to embody the role of the king of Lanka. However, in my youth, I lacked the maturity required to do justice to such a complex character. Now, after all these years, my childhood dream has finally materialized,” reflects the actor, his voice resonating with a sense of fulfillment and gratitude.
As Rana immerses himself in the world of theatre once again, memories of his time at NSD flood back, evoking a sense of nostalgia for the transformative experiences that shaped his artistic journey. “During my days at NSD, the institution was the focal point of my life. From dawn till dusk, my world revolved around the stage, honing my craft and exploring the depths of theatrical expression,” recalls Rana, his reverence for the institution palpable in his words.
Amidst the reminiscence of bygone days, Rana fondly recalls the vibrant food scene that characterized the NSD campus during his student years. “In the streets surrounding NSD, bustling with activity, one could find a myriad of culinary delights. From the tantalizing aromas of street food stalls on Tansen Marg to the comforting warmth of chai and freshly squeezed juices, the culinary landscape has evolved over the years,” muses Rana, a hint of nostalgia tinting his memories.
As Ashutosh Rana embarks on this new chapter of his theatrical journey, his return to the stage serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of art to transcend time and space, weaving together the threads of past and present into a tapestry of creative expression. With each step, he embraces the stage with renewed vigor and passion, reaffirming his commitment to the craft and celebrating the timeless allure of the performing arts.
As he prepares to embody the legendary antagonist, Ravana, Rana’s journey comes full circle, embodying a childhood aspiration that has now blossomed into reality. “In the streets of Gadarwara, Ramleela beckoned, but the role of Ravana remained elusive. Now, as I delve into this iconic character, I embrace the culmination of a lifelong dream,” he muses, his voice tinged with a blend of nostalgia and anticipation.
Stepping onto the stage once more, Rana finds himself immersed in a world where time seems to stand still, where every line spoken and every movement made carries the weight of artistic expression. “During my NSD days, the stage was my sanctuary, a canvas upon which I painted the myriad shades of human emotion,” he recalls, evoking memories of endless rehearsals and passionate performances that shaped his craft.
Amidst the echoes of bygone days, Rana’s senses are stirred by the familiar sights and sounds of the NSD campus, now transformed by the passage of time. “The bustling streets that once teemed with the aroma of street food now echo with the footsteps of a new generation of aspiring artists,” he observes, acknowledging the evolving landscape of the theater community.
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