'A sense of boredom had crept in': Pankaj Tripathi opens up about taking a much-needed acting break

Pankaj Tripathi is known for his grounded performances in 'Mirzapur' and 'Newton.' In an interview recently, Tripathi went on to reveal that he has become significantly more selective with his scripts. Additionally, the 'Stree' actor also reflected on a period of intense, back-to-back shooting, admitting that "a sense of boredom" had dampened his love for the craft.

Pankaj Tripathi on working on back-to-back projects

In a candid conversation with Variety India, the 'Stree 2' actor shared, "I was working back-to-back on projects. A sense of boredom and fatigue had crept in. I wasn’t enjoying my work. A break was much needed. I have become more selective now. I leave my home for work that excites me. I don’t want to do every project that comes my way. I am in a phase of life where I only act for excitement and artistic satisfaction. I can’t do it for EMI and survival. I want to keep doing this and see if this works for me in the long run."




Tripathi fondly recalled his days as a student at NSD, noting the irony of now receiving calls for tickets to a show where his own daughter is performing on the very stage where his journey began.

Pankaj Tripathi on the work front

Despite being more selective, Tripathi’s presence remains strong across cinema and OTT platforms. He was last seen in 'Metro... In Dino' that released on July 4, 2025, essaying a nuanced role opposite Konkona Sensharma. He was also seen in 'Criminal Justice: A Family Matter' Season 4, that premiered on May 29, 2025, with the finale airing in July. Tripathi reprised his role as the witty lawyer Madhav Mishra.

Pankaj Tripathi will be seen in 'Mirzapur: The Movie' which is scheduled for a release on September 4, 2026, transitioning from OTT onto the big screen with Tripathi returning as Kaleen Bhaiya.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”