For many aspiring actors, a cinematic idol serves as a distant beacon of inspiration. For Himanshu N Awasthi, the star of the television show Rimjhim – Choti Umar, Bada Safar, that admiration for the legendary Irrfan Khan became the very catalyst that launched his professional career, transforming a dream into a tangible reality.
Theatrical Roots and a Cinematic Dream
Himanshu N Awasthi's journey into the performing arts began early. During his teenage years, he was actively involved in theatre, honing his craft on stage. It was during this formative period that he developed a profound admiration for the late, great actor Irrfan Khan. "I used to manifest about working with Irrfan Khan," Himanshu recalls. The actor's nuanced performances and his own background in theatre deeply resonated with the young aspirant from Jaipur, solidifying his desire to pursue acting.
A Fateful Audition and an Overwhelming Break
The turning point arrived unexpectedly when a casting director saw one of Himanshu's theatre performances. After the show, he was approached for a film audition, though details were scarce. Trusting the opportunity, he auditioned, was shortlisted, and was subsequently asked to relocate to Udaipur for the shoot. It was only upon arrival that he discovered the monumental truth: the film was Angrezi Medium, starring his idol, Irrfan Khan. "I was overwhelmed," he shares. In the film, he played Ankit, the brother of Radhika Madan's character. This marked his official entry into the entertainment industry, a direct leap from his hometown of Jaipur.
Steady Growth and Transition to Television
Following that pivotal debut, work began to flow consistently for Himanshu. He balanced his acting commitments with academics, successfully completing his graduation in Physics and Mathematics. He took on significant roles in web series and films, earning appreciation from directors and crews, which fueled his professional growth and learning curve. To further his career, he eventually made the move to Mumbai. With guidance from friends already in the city, he transitioned into television. Before landing his current lead role of Sameer in Rimjhim, he showcased his talent as a parallel lead alongside Fahmaan Khan in Krishna Mohini and also appeared in numerous television commercials.
Himanshu N Awasthi's story is a testament to how passion, coupled with dedication and a touch of serendipity, can chart a path from the theatre circuits of Jaipur to the bright lights of Indian television, all inspired by the enduring legacy of a master like Irrfan Khan.
