From Delhi theatre to national recognition: Harsh Mayar’s journey on screen

For Harsh Mayar, acting began as an escape from the confines of the classroom and soon became a passion that would define his life. Celebrated for his award-winning performance in I Am Kalam, his role in Gullak and his recent comedy film One Two Cha Cha Cha, Mayar traces a journey from Delhi theatre workshops to national recognition, shaped by perseverance, craft and a family that believed in him.

Early Delhi days

“I was very bad in studies,” Mayar recalls of his school years. “It was like, I was not really interested in the studies. So, I used to like to imitate people, mimic people at that time.”

A turning point came when a family member noticed his restless energy. One day, his uncle suggested to his mother that the boy should be encouraged towards theatre so that he could channel that energy productively. The idea stayed.

Though initially reluctant, Mayar soon discovered the joy of performance. “I was not really great in studies… I just went there to enjoy myself, to meet new people and everything,” he says. Things changed when he began theatre workshops in 2005. He recalls being surprised by how much he enjoyed the exercises, the movement and the camaraderie with children his own age. “That got me hooked,” he says, adding that the sense of freedom drew him firmly towards acting.

The breakthrough

The years that followed were marked by persistence and rejection. Mayar says he auditioned relentlessly for acting, dancing and singing roles. “I like gave 200 auditions for something… some ads, some shows, some TV shows,” he says.

Then came I Am Kalam. “One day this film called I Am Kalam came to me. I gave the audition, and I got selected for the part. And so that’s how it all started.”

Directed by Nila Madhab Panda and released in 2011, the film became his first major success. Mayar says it gave him recognition, but he is careful about how he views early acclaim. He describes himself as fortunate to have received an award at a young age, yet insists he does not carry that weight on his shoulders. At the time, he says, the credit belonged to the director and the team who shaped his performance, rather than to him alone.

Family support and early mentorship

Mayar repeatedly credits his family, especially his uncle, for making his early training possible. “I was not very financially good from the beginning,” he says, explaining that his parents, from a middle- or lower-middle-class background, could not afford formal acting fees. His uncle stepped in to support his training and continues to encourage him. “You have people in your life who support you and keep you going,” he says.

Working with Panda was also formative. Mayar remembers the set fondly, describing it as a happy experience, though many details have faded with time. “It was like 2009, and I was 12 or something,” he says, noting that he is now 28 and looks back on those memories through a haze.

Choosing roles and staying adaptable

Over the years, Mayar has worked across films, television, short films and digital projects. When it comes to selecting roles, he focuses on the story and the significance of the part. “I like to see what kind of story it is, what kind of role I have in this, how big the part is, how important it is in the film or series,” he says.

He rejects rigid distinctions between platforms. “There is nothing like every medium is different. It’s just your craft,” he says, adding that if an actor is grounded in technique, adaptation becomes natural.

Discussing his role as Aman in Gullak, which he has reprised over multiple seasons, Mayar explains how observation keeps the character authentic. He draws nuances from young people around him, collecting small details to ensure the role remains relatable.

Reflections on a long career

Asked to identify defining moments, Mayar resists easy summaries. “I can’t define it in one line… It has so much layering,” he says, noting that he has been working for 17 years. He describes himself as blessed, grateful for meaningful roles and for the affection of audiences. “You become an actor, but if you are not loved by people, it’s different,” he says. “I am truly blessed, I feel I am God’s favourite child.”

Challenges, he adds, are constant. Every role brings its own difficulties, which must be met with sincerity and commitment. While he avoids hero-worship, he draws inspiration from many people, preferring to learn from what they say and how they work rather than idolising a single figure.

Current work and ties to Delhi

Mayar is currently working on Gullak Season Five, while his comedy film One Two Cha Cha Cha hit theatres on January 16. He describes the release as significant, calling it “a big deal” for the team.

Despite living in Mumbai with his wife, Delhi remains central to his sense of self. “Delhi is where I was born, my parents are there, my dog is there, my family is there,” he says. He misses the city’s winters, its food, his theatre days and time spent with friends and cousins. He adds that the warmth he receives whenever he returns reminds him of his roots. “You always remember your city,” he says.

Addressing his audience, Mayar offers a simple note of gratitude. “To my fans, thank you for all. It’s really great that you guys spare some time for my work.”