Art of storytelling

Vinay Pathak’s Take On Craft, Cinema, And Conviction

Shaurya Balabh, X (IGCSE) & Ansh Deb Barma, VIII (CLS)  AGS Gurugram

Vinay Pathak is a renowned theatre and film actor known for his versatility and emotional depth. In a career spanning almost three decades, he has been part of diverse genres and played each role with equal panache. He speaks to GT about the craft of effective storytelling.

The road less travelled
While studying in the US, I attended a play that sparked my initial interest in theatre. I discovered how integral theatre was to the education system and soon realised that I wanted to pursue theatre. My father was shocked, but I was happy with my choice. Today, I see that children are pursuing their passion early in life, and convincing their parents to support them. This is a change from my time.

A demanding journey
Theatre is far more physically and emotionally demanding medium for an actor than films. Cinema, on the other hand, is a director’s medium where you’re supposed to follow the vision of one person. Also, cinema offers you the luxury of multiple takes, unlike theatre where you are guided by instinct and on-the-spot interaction with the audience. But I love both mediums. And, that’s why I do both.

Tripping on the story
I am attracted to a good story, before anything else. If the story is strong, it doesn’t matter if my role is big or small, if it is the lead or a supporting role. A good story will always have a good conflict point which gets resolved in the end. This is why it is not very easy to find or write an original good story. A great storyteller will retain the audience interest from the beginning till the end. Like Premchand or R K Narayan. Of course, as an actor, you need to improvise at times. One must be spontaneous, while adhering to the rules of the craft. And, this can only be achieved through experience.

Memorable milestones
Dasvidaniya holds a special place in my heart, not just as an actor but also because I turned producer with that film. Everyone involved with the film – singer Kailash Kher, cinematographer Arun Verma, writer Arshad Syed, and director Shashank Shah – are all my buddies, so it was a fulfilling experience. Also, the role I played taught me that we can transform every day - if we observe what’s happening around us, and if we have compassion in our hearts. Yet, I have to admit that every role I have done remains close to my heart, just like this classic tragedy I am currently performing in. It’s a clown’s interpretation of a classic. We workshopped it for months, and have performed it over twelve years, but it remains as challenging. The live experience of theatre makes every show unique in itself. No recording on social media can replicate this feeling. That’s why I always urge people to experience live performances.

Evolving along the way
Mainstream Bollywood was largely about song-and-dance routines, though it has changed over the years. New-wave filmmakers are finding more compelling narratives. But regional cinema has always had a lot of authenticity and depth in its storytelling. Films like The Disciple and Ande Kode Dadaan are examples of pure art. When films deal with subjects that mirror the reality of our times, they can become archival material for future reference. Actors, just like other celebrities in sports, music, or fashion, impact the younger generation. So, as actors, I believe we must always conduct ourselves responsibly.

Message for Amitians
Honesty is the most important ingredient in this craft. If you are honest in expressing your emotions, only then the audience will feel it.

Excellence honoured

Celebration Of The Graduating Class Of 2024

AUM

Amity University, Mumbai, held convocation ceremony for the Class of 2024 on February 18, 2025, to celebrate the achievements of 1,505 graduates, 178 medal winners and 32 PhD recipients. The ceremony also included the presentation of  various prestigious awards including the Best All-Round Student Trophies, Shri Baljit Shastri Award and Dr Ashok K. Chauhan Scholarship, to recognise the dedication of students who have not only excelled in academics but also contributed to the community.
The ceremony began with a warm welcome address by Prof (Dr) A W Santhosh Kumar, vice chancellor, followed by a speech by Dr Aseem Chauhan, Chancellor, who highlighted the university’s dedication to shaping future leaders who are not only academically proficient but also socially responsible. The event also saw honorary degrees being conferred to three outstanding industry leaders namely Nand Khemka, chairman, SUN Group; Romal Shetty, CEO, Deloitte; and Yann Leroy, architect.
Nand Khemka delivered a keynote address where he urged the audience to embrace challenges and pursue their dreams with unwavering determination. Romal Shetty, in his speech encouraged students to embrace discomfort, uphold integrity, and continue learning throughout their careers. Yann Leroy focused on the transformative power of innovation and urged graduates to make meaningful contributions to society.
The ceremony celebrated students for exceptional entrepreneurial ventures and volunteer work. Degrees were conferred across multiple disciplines, with students being awarded top honours. They were also acknowledged for their significant community engagement.