Dr Anil Rastogi, an 83-year-old veteran theatre artist, film actor, and former scientist at the CSIR–Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI) in Lucknow, has been honored with the prestigious Padma Shri award. This recognition celebrates his extensive and diverse contributions to the performing arts over more than six decades.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Theatre and Screen
At 83, Dr Rastogi remains actively engaged in theatre and screen performances. He is widely recognized for his role in the film Ishaqzaade and has built a substantial presence across various media, including films, web series, television shows, and commercials. Despite his success in these areas, his primary commitment has always been to theatre, where he recently achieved a significant milestone by completing 100 plays.
Balancing Science and Art
Dr Rastogi's journey began in 1961 with his first theatre performance, followed by his appointment at the Central Drug Research Institute in Lucknow in 1962. He reflects on this dual path, stating, "I performed my first play in 1961, and joined the Central Drug Research Institute in 1962. From that point onwards, my professional career and my theatre life moved side by side." He acknowledges the challenges of balancing scientific research with artistic pursuits and credits his workplace for supporting this unique combination.
Recognition and Gratitude
Expressing his gratitude, Dr Rastogi noted, "After Raj Bisaria sahab, I do not recall another theatre practitioner from Uttar Pradesh receiving the Padma Shri, despite the high quality of work being done across the state. In that sense, this recognition means a great deal to me." He also highlighted the influence of mentors and collaborators, including stalwarts like BV Karant, Bansi Kaul, Ravi Vaswani, Ranjeet Kapoor, Raj Bisaria, and Surya Mohan Kulshrestha.
Family Support and Legacy
Dr Rastogi emphasized the crucial role of his family in sustaining his artistic journey. He shared, "My wife continues to support me by helping with rehearsals, especially now when age has affected memory." This support has been instrumental in his ability to continue performing and contributing to the arts well into his eighties.
Dr Anil Rastogi's Padma Shri award not only honors his individual achievements but also shines a light on the rich cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh and the dedication required to excel in both scientific and artistic fields.
