Pankaj Tripathi would’ve been a farmer if not an actor

It took Pankaj Tripathi almost two decades to reach where he is today in the world of cinema. However, the acclaimed actor said if he wasn’t in the world of showbiz, he would have been a farmer or would have made a career in politics. Pankaj is currently gearing up for the release of his upcoming film Sherdil: The Pilibhit Saga, a dark humour-laced satire inspired by true events.

He says, “My father was a farmer and that was my ancestral work. I would’ve done farming. Or maybe since I was a student leader I would probably have been in politics. I don’t know.”

The 45-year-old star debuted in 2004 with minor roles in Run and Omkara. His breakthrough came in 2012 with Gangs of Wasseypur franchise.

Later, he was lauded for his work in films such as Fukrey, Masaan, Nil Battey Sannata, Bareilly Ki Barfi, Newton, Stree, Ludo and Mimi. Pankaj also made a name in the web world with his work in series such as Mirzapur, Criminal Justice, Yours Truly and Criminal Justice: Behind Closed Doors.

However, it was not an easy ride. “My acting journey is a long story. I left farming and student politics… Was unsuccessful in five-six jobs and that’s how I came towards cinema. Here also it took 15-20 years. I don’t know if I am successful or not but to reach where I am today took me 15-20 years.” — IANS