Actor Arjun Rampal recently recalled a memorable conversation with veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah that gave him a fascinating insight into the importance of theatre for an actor. Comparing a theatre performer’s training to legendary cricketer Donald Bradman’s practice routine, Shah explained how the stage sharpens an actor’s reflexes and prepares them for the larger canvas of cinema. Rampal, who has earned widespread appreciation for portraying the formidable Major Iqbal in Dhurandhar and its second part, also reflected on the overwhelming audience response to the film, admitting that its success exceeded everyone’s expectations.
Speaking about theatre and his own experience with the art form, Arjun Rampal said, “Well, I did a bit of theatre back in school—not a huge amount, but some. When I was in Delhi, I used to go and watch plays. I never imagined I would become a great actor or anything of the sort—not that I’m a great actor now, either! But honestly, I never thought I’d end up in this field, in this line of work. That said, I still watch a lot of theatre; I think it’s amazing. I’ve had some great opportunities—I remember once, while working with Naseeruddin Shah, I asked him, ‘What’s the difference between working in films and being a theatre actor?’ He replied, ‘You know, when Donald Bradman used to practice, he’d use a golf ball and a stump—that’s what a theatre actor is like. It sharpens your reflexes. And then, when you step onto the actual cricket field, it feels vast.’ So, I’m sure it helps tremendously, though, unfortunately, I don’t have much experience in it myself.”
The anecdote offers an interesting glimpse into how experienced performers view the relationship between theatre and cinema. Rampal's comparison, as relayed through Shah's cricket analogy, highlights how performing on stage can help actors develop sharper instincts, stronger reactions and greater confidence. Theatre demands sustained performances in front of a live audience, with little room for retakes, while cinema offers a different environment in which scenes can be filmed from multiple angles. Although Rampal admits that his own theatre experience is limited, his continued interest in watching plays reflects his admiration for the craft.
Rampal and Naseeruddin Shah have shared the screen in films including Asambhav (2004) and Raajneeti (2010). Their professional association gave Rampal an opportunity to interact with an actor whose extensive experience spans theatre, independent cinema and mainstream films. The conversation about acting, therefore, carries particular significance, revealing the kind of practical wisdom that can stay with an actor long after a discussion has ended.
The conversation also turned to Rampal's performance as Major Iqbal in Dhurandhar, a character that has attracted considerable attention from audiences. Asked how it feels when people shower so much love on a character he has portrayed, the actor expressed genuine gratitude and surprise. “It feels incredible—sometimes I have to pinch myself to check if I’m still dreaming! It’s been an amazing journey, and I’m truly grateful to have been a part of that film. Honestly, none of us ever expected it to achieve what it did!” he said.
His response reflects the impact the film has had on his professional journey. Playing a formidable character in a major cinematic production can bring an actor renewed visibility, but Rampal's comments suggest that the scale of the audience response was not something the team had anticipated. Rather than taking the appreciation for granted, he described the experience as an extraordinary journey and acknowledged the role the film has played in connecting him with viewers.
Meanwhile, Rampal is preparing for his next project, Arjun Naga, an action film directed by Anil Sharma and co-starring Utkarsh Sharma and Nidhhi Agerwal. The film has recently commenced shooting, adding another project to the actor's busy schedule. As audiences continue to celebrate his work in Dhurandhar, his reflections on theatre and his conversation with Naseeruddin Shah offer a reminder that an actor's growth comes from remaining curious about the craft, learning from experienced performers and appreciating every opportunity to tell a story.