Exclusive | Anil Rastogi opens up on theatre, science, and love for acting

Anil Rastogi is a known name in the Hindi film and TV industries. He gained wide recognition with his work in the Arjun Kapoor-led Ishaqzaade (2012), which emerged as a success. Rastogi, who was an accomplished scientist with the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), also carved a niche for himself on the small screen with his work in shows like Udaan and Kalash. In an exclusive interview with RoktimRajpal.Com, the 80-year-old opens up about his love for theatre, passion for acting and more. 

Edited excerpts from the interview

How did your tryst with acting begin?

Back in the 1960s, naataks (plays) were held in Lucknow during the Holi festivities. I used to watch these performances and like them a lot. Once I asked my mamaji (maternal uncle) if I could act with him in a play. I ended up being part of Noor Jahan. In around 1962, I did my MSC.

Actor Anil Rastogi. Credit: Anil Rastogi

Then after the China War, I was part of a big play to raise funds for those affected by it. The play was directed by Rajeshwar Bachchan. He was like my mentor. I learned the nuances of theatre from him. 

How difficult was it to balance your career as a performer and your work as a scientist?

I joined CDRI around 1962. The CDRI Club’s Secretary Dr KB Mathur encouraged me to perform in plays there. This changed people’s perception of me. I got more respect. That said, I made it a point to never neglect my Science work because of my love for theatre.

How did acting in Bollywood films happen?

The play Yehoodi Ki Ladki is special to me in this regard. Anupam Kher did it in 1979. When he got busy, I did the play. It got me a lot of attention. People interviewed me. They would often say ‘Dr on the set’ in the articles/headlines. I eventually acted in the film Yeh Woh Mazil Toh Nahi. Then, Ishaqzaade gave me my first break. I got recognition in Mumbai and was soon called there. 

What is your true calling-- theatre or the big screen?

I act in films and TV shows as it is a hobby. Money is not a concern. Theatre will always come first for me. It is where I started

Any memories of working with Mahesh Babu in Bharat Ane Nenu?

Mahesh Babu treated me with a lot of respect. We met and shot in Lucknow. We then filmed scenes in Hyderabad. I asked him for a photo together.

Anil Rastogi with Telugu star Mahesh Babu. Credit: Anil Rastogi

After the shoot in Hyderabad was wrapped up, he reminded me about the pending photo. Mahesh Babu then asked his assistant to click the picture. I was touched by this gesture.

You were seen in Taali, which dealt with the transgender community. What is your take on the issue?

In Taali, I gave a landmark judgment. The transgender community should get respect. Jaise hum hai waise hi woh hai. 

Any regrets about missing out on romantic roles? What type of work can one expect from you going forward?

I didn’t do romantic roles because of the age at which I started doing films. But mujhe koi regrets nahi hai. I want to do all types of roles but get more politician-type ones.