I’ve done enough special appearances, now I want solid roles: Ashish Vidyarthi

Ashish Vidyarthi, the seasoned actor-turned kahani spinner, is coming to Lucknow to take audiences on a lore-filled journey. Remembered fondly for his antagonist roles in films like Drohkaal, Haider, Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai and Barfi, he has expanded his creative identity beyond cinema.

From motivational talks and food vlogs to stand-up comedy and storytelling, the actor, after his long standing presence in cinema, is now embraces multiple mediums of expression. He brings that evolving self to the city with his show Kahanibaaz, while also reflecting on his love for Lucknow, his new multi-facet journey and why he now seeks substantial roles over fleeting appearances. When asked about juggling multiple creative pursuits besides acting, he explains, “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. 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 says.

Addressing how people often perceive him primarily as an actor, Vidyarthi says, “It does come as a surprise to people to see him give a pep talk, perform stand-up comedy or participate in a reality show like Traitors. But I believe in being fully present in whatever I’m doing at that moment. Allow yourself to flow. That has allowed me to do many things, simply because I decided not to hold myself back. My message is simple, 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,’’ he says.Talking about his stand-up shows, he says it is built on clean humour, free of 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 says.On the film front, Vidyarthi says his intentions are crystal clear.

“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 reveals.Calling OTT a boon for actors and creators alike, the actor says it has transformed the landscape for independent filmmakers by reducing the dependence on big budgets. “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,’’ says the actor.