Anang Desai reflects on Khichdi fame, memories of NSD, and impact of theatre

Veteran actor Anang Desai, best known for his role as Babuji in the popular TV series Khichdi, said that his character has brought him widespread recognition to this day.

“It brought me much more popularity and recognition. I had done many films and TV shows that gained popularity, but Khichdi stood out. This role was unusual and a landmark for me — it’s right at the top of my career chart,” Desai told Patriot over the phone.

He added that two films followed the series: Khichdi: The Movie (2010) and Khichdi 2: Mission Paanthukistan (2023). “Khichdi became a brand, and its characters left a lasting impression on audiences. The makers then thought of adapting it into films. Though the story was new, the humour and characters remained the same, which fans loved,” said Desai, who has appeared in more than 100 television shows.

He mentioned that the films are now available on OTT platforms.

Reflecting on his time at Delhi’s National School of Drama, he said, “NSD is a premier institute for theatre training. I studied there from 1975 to 1978 and was fortunate to train under theatre director Ebrahim Alkazi Sahab, who was the institute’s director then. I learned so much.”

Desai noted that he bonded with batchmates like Anupam Kher, Satish Kaushik, and Govind Namdev. “We became good friends during our course. We’d go for chaat at the Bengali Market, watch plays at Mandi House, and meet other theatre people.”

The 71-year-old actor shared his lifelong passion for acting. “I was drawn to the performing arts since childhood, especially acting and music. I actively participated in cultural events and eventually joined a theatre group in college, which led me to the National School of Drama (NSD). My parents supported my decision, even though most people at the time were pushed into other careers,” said Desai, who has worked in films like Parinda, Jurm, Aashiqui, Gumrah, Dilwale, Tere Naam, Rustom, Kaagaz 2, and others.

Discussing Delhi’s theatre culture, Desai remarked on the role NSD’s Repertory Company played. “The Repertory staged various plays that people paid to watch. Theatre is serious, and buying tickets shows respect for the craft. Many theatre groups are now promoting it in Delhi. There may be ups and downs, but theatre will continue to flourish.”

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He acknowledged OTT as a new and popular form of entertainment.

“OTT has opened up more opportunities and allows people to watch content at home. I believe quality content will always succeed,” Desai said.

When asked about film remakes, he said, “I don’t favour remaking songs or films. The original content is always best. One can take inspiration but should add something new rather than just copying.”

The actor also spoke about casting in his time. “There were no casting directors then. Film directors and producers made the choices themselves, often based on personal relationships and past work,” he said.

On the significance of theatre, he said, “Theatre means a lot to me. It’s where I began, and it has its own flavour. Theatre is why I’ve been able to survive in films and TV.”

Desai highlighted the differences between film and TV, saying he enjoyed doing both. “For an actor, the character matters. A good actor can play any role but must understand the technicalities of each medium. A strong character is essential.”

Reflecting on his NSD friends, he shared, “Anupam Kher and I were roommates at NSD and remain close friends. I also worked with Satish Kaushik on several projects. He was a dear friend and batchmate at NSD.”