Sanjay Mishra on returning to theatre with Hindi adaptation of political satire, ‘Ghashiram Kotwal’, that can spark dialogue
Sanjay Mishra. Pic/Viraj Shetty Instagram
Sanjay Mishra is looking forward to endless rehearsals, long monologues, and facing real-time audiences as he returns to theatre with the Hindi adaptation of Ghashiram Kotwal (1972), the iconic Marathi political satire by playwright Vijay Tendulkar. Be it on stage or on screen, the veteran actor is known for his subtle performances, understated realism, and improvisational flair. But he insists it’s the stage where he truly lets loose. “Theatre is a space where you can be braver,” says Mishra, who plays statesman Nana Phadnavis in the production.
Directed by Abhijit Panse and Bhalachandra Kubal, the play is set in 18th-century Pune under Peshwa rule. The story explores the murky nexus between power, politics, and morality, charting the meteoric rise — and eventual fall — of a man willing to barter his morals for authority. Mishra says he had been seeking “something challenging and that allows growth” when the opportunity came his way. “Ghashiram Kotwal is an iconic piece of theatre with immense cultural and political relevance. When I was approached for this Hindi adaptation, the strength of the material and the clarity of the director’s vision moved me. I felt it was the right time to return, and to do so with a play that holds a mirror to society,” he shares.
While he has previously featured in politically charged films such as Newton (2017) and Bahut Hua Sammaan (2020), Mishra believes theatre delivers its message differently. “Both mediums require honesty, but theatre offers a certain immediacy that’s very powerful. [When] playing a character like Nana Phadnavis on stage, I try to remain neutral in interpretation, while focusing on the humanity and contradictions within him. The goal is to provoke thought, not preach.” He adds that the play’s themes remain timeless. “I believe that in today’s world, where people are more aware and engaged, this play can spark meaningful dialogue. That, to me, is the real strength of theatre.”
It’s a sharp shift from his recent comic role in Son of Sardaar 2, but Mishra embraces variety. He shares, “From Ankhon Dekhi [2013] to Vadh [2022], Golmaal [2006-2017] to Bhakshak [2024], I’ve defied typecasting. I believe that an actor should remain unpredictable for growth. I’m drawn to stories, not genres.”
August 14
The day the play production is set to debut
Still making debuts
Sanjay Mishra is set to make his Bengali debut with director Pritha Chakraborty’s ‘Phera’. He shares, “I’ve always admired the storytelling legacy of Bengali cinema. ‘Phera’ offered me a unique opportunity to immerse myself in a different linguistic and cultural rhythm.”
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