Exclusive - Malhar Pandya on his love for stage acting: The last applause in theatre is magical

Malhar Pandya, currently portraying Suryadev in Veer Hanuman, has a deep-rooted connection with theatre. As the world celebrates Theatre Day on March 27, the actor reflects on his journey from stage to screen, the significance of live performances, and why theatre continues to be a vital force in the entertainment industry.
Born into a family immersed in theatre, Malhar’s early exposure to the art form shaped his acting foundation. “My father, Laxmikant Pandya, was a well-known theatre director, writer, and actor. My mother and sister were also actors. I started acting in theatre at the age of 10,” he shares. Theatre, he believes, instilled in him discipline, spontaneity, and a deeper connection with characters—skills that continue to influence his performances on television today.
Despite the digital age, where content is consumed primarily on screens, Malhar insists that theatre holds an irreplaceable charm. “Live performance offers real-time connection and raw, unfiltered emotions. Each show is unique, and the audience becomes a part of the performance. In an era dominated by edited content, theatre provides authenticity.” He also highlights the importance of theatre in storytelling across mediums, as many accomplished actors have honed their craft on stage before making their mark in film and television.
However, theatre faces challenges, particularly budget constraints. “Theatre budgets are undoubtedly lower than films or digital productions, but creativity thrives within these limitations. Even with minimalistic sets, lighting, and sound, theatre continues to captivate audiences in Mumbai, Delhi, Lucknow, Pune, and Jaipur,” he says.
Although he has been away from the stage for years due to his television commitments, he expresses a strong desire to return. “I would love to do theatre again if time permits and a challenging role comes my way. The thrill of performing live and the energy of the audience are unmatched. The last applause in theatre is one of the most magical and emotional moments for any actor.”
While he hasn’t been able to watch plays recently due to his schedule, Malhar hopes to catch Ame Lai Gaya, Tame Rahi Gaya, a Gujarati play by Sharman Joshi. His passion for theatre remains intact, reinforcing his belief that despite evolving entertainment trends, the stage will always be a powerful medium for storytelling and artistic expression.