Artists often attribute their success to the guidance and wisdom of their gurus or teachers, who have played pivotal roles in shaping their careers. For many actors, the bond with their teachers extends beyond the classroom, with regular interactions that continue to inspire and guide them.
On this Teacher Day, &TV artists share their deep respect for their teachers and talk about the bond they share now. These include Ashutosh Kulkarni (Krishan Bihari Vajpayee from Atal), Amit Bhardwaj (Mewa from Bheema), Yogesh Tripathi (Happu Singh from Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Shubhangi Atre (Angoori Bhabhi from Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai).
Amit Bhardwaj, known as Mewa from Bheema, shares, “My guru, Sri Suresh Kumar Hajju, known for his iconic portrayal of Mahatma Gandhi during Gandhi Jayanti since the 1980s, is a veteran theatre artist and a remarkable actor from Premchand Rangshala in Patna. Despite his stature, he remains incredibly humble, offering guidance to both emerging and established artists. I have been fortunate to learn to act under his mentorship since 2005, and I frequently call him to check on his well-being or seek advice.”
Ashutosh Kulkarni, also known as Krishan Bihari Vajpayee from Atal, shares, “I remain in close contact with one of my schoolteachers, Ms Geetanjali Rao, who played a significant role in shaping my journey into the entertainment industry. As my English teacher, she not only helped me develop my language skills but also played a crucial part in my overall personality development. She consistently encouraged me to participate in various competitions and extracurricular activities, believing that there is much more to life than just academics. Her belief in me and her unwavering support were instrumental in building my confidence and ultimately led me to pursue a career in acting. I truly consider her motivation and guidance as the foundation of my success. To this day, I often visit her at the school to seek her blessings and express my gratitude for the profound impact she has had on my life.”
Yogesh Tripathi, known as Daroga Happu Singh from Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, says, “My chemistry teacher, Mr. Hameed Beg, not only helped me master numbers but also taught me the value of precision and dedication. His classes were a masterclass in discipline, and I unknowingly applied those lessons in my acting career. The accuracy and attention to detail he instilled in me are the same qualities I bring to my iconic character, Happu Singh. He showed me that with hard work and enthusiasm, even the toughest problems can be solved. I am proud to say that his influence has not only made me a better actor but also a more confident person. I paid him a surprise visit last year, and he was quite happy to see how much I have grown as an actor. He expressed his contentment that I chose the proper career path. He has had an immeasurable impact on my life, and I will always be appreciative of his constant support and direction. I hope to continue making him proud.”
Shubhangi Atre, known as Angoori Bhabhi from Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, shares, “My Kathak teacher from Indore has played a pivotal role in not only enhancing my dance skills but also my overall personality. Her passion for Kathak was contagious, and under her guidance, I became not just a trained dancer but also a more confident and positive person. I am honoured that she has displayed my pictures on the wall of her dance academy, a place where countless students, like me, have been nurtured. Her belief in my potential helped me become a trained dancer and positively influenced my journey as an artist. I carry her lessons with me every day, both on and off the stage, and I am forever grateful for the impact she has had on my life.”
Watch your favourite artists in Atal at 8pm, Bheema at 8.30pm, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan at 10pm, and Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai at 10.30pm, airing every Monday to Friday only on &TV!
