Ashish Vidyarthi Expands Creative Horizons with Kahanibaaz Show in Lucknow
Ashish Vidyarthi, the acclaimed actor renowned for his powerful antagonist roles in films such as Drohkaal, Haider, Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai, and Barfi, is set to captivate audiences in Lucknow with his storytelling performance, Kahanibaaz. This event marks a significant chapter in his evolving career, as he transitions from a celebrated film star to a multi-talented artist exploring various mediums of expression.
Embracing a Multi-Faceted Creative Identity
In a recent interview, Vidyarthi reflected on his journey beyond cinema, which now includes motivational talks, food vlogging, stand-up comedy, and storytelling. He emphasized that this diversification is not exhausting but rather energizing. "People ask if doing so many things is exhausting. I ask them, aren't you exhausted living every single day? You've lived 365 days this year. Is it tiring? No. Similarly, for me, living freely and doing what I love energises me," he explained.
Vidyarthi highlighted a pivotal realization in his career: "Years back, I realised that at one point, I discovered I'm also an actor. Even as we speak, I continue to work as an actor but I also dub for online audio content. One has to get over the feeling of what people think if you explore different careers." He encourages others to break free from self-imposed limitations, stating, "Don't trap yourself in one identity. Don't be limited by what others think you should do. Don't be surprised that I do many things. Ask yourself what you think you cannot do and then allow yourself to explore it."
Stand-Up Comedy with Clean Humor
Discussing his stand-up comedy shows, Vidyarthi noted that they are built on clean humor, free from vulgarity or abuse. "People from three generations come and watch it, and they enjoy it. I want people to know that even clean comedy can work," he said. This approach aligns with his broader philosophy of creating inclusive and family-friendly content.
Seeking Substantial Roles in Film and OTT
On the film front, Vidyarthi has clarified his intentions moving forward. "I'm very clear, I want pivotal and central roles. I've done enough special appearances in films. Now I want solid roles. And I'm getting some very interesting parts, which will be announced soon," he revealed. This shift underscores his desire for more meaningful and impactful characters in his acting career.
Vidyarthi also praised the rise of OTT platforms, calling them a boon for actors and creators. "OTT platforms are places where you go to listen to stories. When so many people want to watch stories, many creators get opportunities. With these platforms, if you want to tell a quirky story today, you can make it irrespective of the budget you have. Maybe only 10,000 people watch it, but at least it gets made, which wasn't the case a few years ago," he said. This transformation has democratized filmmaking, reducing dependence on large budgets and opening doors for independent storytellers.
Connection to Lucknow and Future Endeavors
Expressing his affection for Lucknow, Vidyarthi shared that the city holds a special place in his heart, adding a personal touch to his upcoming Kahanibaaz show. His visit is not just a performance but a reflection of his ongoing journey to connect with audiences through diverse artistic expressions. As he continues to explore new avenues, Vidyarthi remains committed to inspiring others to pursue their passions without constraints.
