Renowned Indian actor Pankaj Tripathi has become a household name through his exceptional performances in popular films and series like Mirzapur, Gangs of Wasseypur, and Criminal Justice. Despite the massive success and recognition he enjoys today, Tripathi remains humble about his talent and the craft of acting. In a recent interview, he addressed the perception that his roles often feel similar. He explained, “Ten paintings from the same painter may look alike from a distance, but each one has its own unique identity.” This comparison beautifully reflects how he views his acting career.
According to Tripathi, while some audiences might feel his characters resemble each other, he makes sure to bring a unique perspective to each role. He said he focuses on adding depth and nuance to his performances, ensuring that no two characters feel truly the same. This attention to detail and commitment to variety are what set him apart in the Indian film industry. “I try to make every character different,” he said, “even if the difference is subtle.”
While talking about his role in the latest season of Criminal Justice, Tripathi explained the challenge of balancing comfort and effort in acting. He pointed out that there is a “fine difference between being bloodless and being effortless.” According to him, a performance should not look lifeless, even if it seems smooth and natural. “True artistry,” he added, “lies in mastering that balance.” He believes actors should stay alert and avoid falling into overconfidence, even if they feel comfortable in a role.
Tripathi’s grounded attitude towards acting is influenced by his personal life experiences. He has always been close to his roots and draws inspiration from real people and situations. During his early days, he travelled across India and stayed in dharamshalas (pilgrim rest houses) and gurudwaras (Sikh temples). These journeys helped him understand different aspects of life and human behavior, which now enrich his characters on screen. His deep connection with people from different walks of life gives him an emotional edge in every role he plays.
In 2023, Pankaj Tripathi went through a very personal tragedy when his father passed away. He took a break from acting for almost a year to focus on his mental health and emotional healing. During this time, he reflected on life, reconnected with himself, and slowly found his way back to cinema. When he returned, he brought a renewed energy and emotional maturity to his characters, which can be clearly seen in his work in Criminal Justice 4.
Tripathi also explained how audiences sometimes misunderstand what they see on screen. He said that although a viewer may find similarities in his roles, each character is built from scratch, based on a different backstory, motivation, and emotional journey. He also mentioned that he doesn’t use any specific acting method. Instead, he relies on his own understanding of the script and the human mind. This natural, instinct-based acting is what gives his roles such emotional depth.
He further shared that people are often too quick to judge art, especially from a surface-level point of view. Just as paintings may look similar from a distance, performances too may appear alike unless someone takes the time to observe them closely. Tripathi feels proud that some fans and critics are now starting to notice the smaller details in his work, such as his facial expressions, body language, and emotional shifts.
Despite the fame and awards, Pankaj Tripathi continues to live a simple life, away from glamour. He believes in staying connected to his roots, maintaining humility, and continuing to learn. For him, acting is a lifelong process of discovery, and no role is too small or too big. He respects the journey of every character and takes time to immerse himself completely in the role.
Tripathi’s message to young actors is clear: Stay honest to your craft, observe people, and draw inspiration from life around you. He said that acting is not just about performance; it’s about understanding human emotions deeply. This mindset, he believes, is more important than fame or awards.
Pankaj Tripathi’s acting versatility comes from his rich life experience, thoughtful process, and humble approach. He believes that acting is like painting—no two strokes are the same, even if they appear similar from afar. His work continues to inspire both young actors and audiences, making him one of the most respected artists in Indian cinema today.
