Lucknow’s hidden gems: Himanshu Bajpai says ‘Dastangoi should be taught in schools’

Dastangoi artiste Himanshu Bajpai is a popular name in Lucknow. The seasoned storyteller enjoys a dedicated fan following because of his impeccable oratory skills and impressive knowledge about the city. In an exclusive interview with Roktim Rajpal Diaries, Himanshu opens up about the evolution of Dastangoi as an art form and the need to introduce it in schools.

How did you get interested in this art form?

I was a journalist before entering this field. I worked as a reporter and was under immense pressure in my last job. So, I quit it. Then I decided to pursue a PHD on Lucknow.

Dastangoi star Himanshu Bajpai. Credit: Himanshu Bajpai\

The late Ankit Chadha, a close friend, asked me to pursue Dastangoi. I had my first show in 2014 and it got a great response. Thereafter, I decided yahi kaam karna hai. 

What were the challenges you faced when you started out?

Back in 2014, it was a new art form. We were not sure if it could sustain. Struggle ka period tha. We were also not sure if it could be a profession. There was also no concept of standup performances or open mics. However, slowly rahi ban rahi thi. 

What makes Lucknow a good place to perform?

Lucknow’s environment is highly conducive for Dastangoi. There is no doubt about it. Yeh Lucknow ki cheez hai.  There is no replacement for performing in Lucknow. 

How viable is Dastangoi as a profession?

It is still a new field. Abhi bhi isme right type of log nahi hai. It is a viable field and isme paisa bahut hai if you have the right qualities.

What qualities do you need to become a Dastangoi artiste?

Firstly, you need to have a bond with literature and be passionate about it. Then you should be deeply entrenched in the language. There also needs to be an eye for tales. You should never miss a tale or a story. You also need to have some knowledge of theatre as an art form. 

Did the fact that you are not from a theatre background act as a hindrance during the initial years?

I eventually overcame it. There was a lack of confidence in the initial phase. I had to learn and perform simultaneously. My love for literature helped. It made up for my lack of exposure to theatre. 

What can be done to further popularise Dastangoi?

Dastangoi should be taught and introduced in school. Kids should be exposed to it so that they develop an interest in storytelling from a young age. 

What are your upcoming projects?

I have some in the pipeline. There is one of Munshi Naval Kishore and another one on Mohd Rafi. Work is underway on them. I hope Dastangoi becomes mainstream one day.