Now meet Ashish Vidyarthi, the storyteller

Ashish, who has acted in over 300 films in 11 languages, won the National Film Award for ‘Best Supporting Actor’ for Drohkaal (1994) and cemented his place in the world of cinema with 1942: A Love Story, Is Raat Ki Subah Nahin and Vaastav. In Tamil and Kannada films too, his impact has been formidable as Dadua in AK-47 and Nagalingam in Ezhumalai, reminders of his ability to portray menace with ease. But Ashish’s life is not restricted to cinema. He has been constantly seeking new ways to connect, communicate, and reinvent.

At the heart of his reinvention is Kahanibaaz, an anthology of stories drawn from his own life — his childhood, days in theatre, film career and the personal ups and downs that have shaped him. The show, which has already been staged in several Indian cities, will be presented in Bengaluru on April 11 at Kala Kompound; on May 9 at Arena – The Art Experience, Chennai and May 10 at Samarthanam Auditorium, Bengaluru. During a phone interview, the multifaceted artiste speaks about his latest passion — storytelling.

Ashish calls it therapeutic because in times marked with anger and division, he wants to remind audiences of the gentleness within us all — memories, desires and joys that make life meaningful. His shows move people to laughter, tears, and reflection, he says. “They normalise defeat, celebrate resilience, and remind audiences that setbacks are not anomalies but part of the journey,” says Ashish, who also adds that his stories resonate across age, gender, and geography. “People tell me it feels as if I am talking about their life.” This connection, he says, is special.

Ashish Vidyarthi at the Kahanibaaz show.
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Special Arrangement

Kahanibaaz, says Ashish, feels more intimate compared to acting. “When I act, I inhabit the character’s world. But when I narrate, I bare my own experiences and emotions,” he says, adding that Kahanibaaz grew out of this impulse — to move from scripted roles into impromptu narratives that reflect the everyday challenges and celebrations. He explains that the show is about sharing those lived moments with honesty. This shift, he adds, has allowed him to connect with audiences in a more personal manner.

But Kahanibaaz is only one facet of his creative persona. Two years ago, “almost on a lark”, Ashish stepped into the world of stand-up comedy. He blends humour with storytelling, poking fun at life’s absurdities and himself.

Ashish is also an avid food and travel vlogger.
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Special Arrangement

He also has his food and travel vlogs, which have earned him a devoted following online. From Kolkata’s biryani joints to hidden gems in Palakkad, Ashish explores India’s culinary landscape with an infectious enthusiasm. For him, food is not just about taste — it is about people, culture, and appreciation. He celebrates the simple, authentic everyday menus on the street and in homes. “When we can appreciate what is around us, our life becomes amazing,” he says.

Ashish encourages people to explore facets of themselves beyond their profession. “By 40, many feel trapped and by 50, it becomes a resignation. But life is abundant, it allows us different opportunities. It is up to us if we want to explore them. Rather than waiting to become a millionaire, start enjoying life as it unfolds,” says the actor, who is also a motivational speaker.

He resists generalisations about careers, institutions or opportunities. Whether it is the National School of Drama (his alma mater), FTII or the rise of OTT platforms, he insists that no two journeys are alike. “Each one of us travels our own path, in our own unique way,” he says. He also believes the “OTT is a boon not just for actors but for directors, writers, producers and technicians — because it widens the pyramid of opportunity.”

Ashish with Janaki Sabesh in Ghilli
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

He holds every place his career has taken him to close to his heart. “The audience everywhere accepted me as one of theirs.” His memories of these cities find their way into his stories, and with Kahanibaaz now boasting “over 225 stories” that he “rotates across shows”.

Despite this, Ashish remains committed to acting too. He bristles at being offered “special roles” and insists on central, stellar parts. “I have decided that I am not giving myself any more raw deals. We all are waiting for amazing things to happen. But what you do while you are waiting will determine your life.”

Published – April 03, 2026 01:29 pm IST