Interview || Ashutosh Rana on whether he will join politics: ‘Have no such ambition’

By Admin

06 Jun, 2025

Veteran actor Ashutosh Rana, known for his powerful performances in films like Dushman, Sangharsh, and Pagglait, has built a multifaceted career spanning acting, voiceover, authorship, and production. However, when it comes to stepping into the political arena, the seasoned artist has no such plans. In an interview with Hindustan Times, Rana spoke candidly about his thoughts on politics and his recent return to theatre after more than two decades.

A Clear Stand on Politics

When asked if he would ever consider joining politics, Ashutosh’s answer was clear and composed. “We all are in politics as we are part of a democracy. We all have a right to vote, which means that every person is part of the political world,” he explained in Hindi. However, he made it evident that formal politics does not align with his personal aspirations.

“The only difference is that some people reach the Parliament and some people are part of the whole political system from the road,” he elaborated, adding insightfully, “Agar sadak jagi rahegi toh sansad saji rahegi aur agar sansad saji rahi toh sadak jagruk rahegi” (If the streets are awake, the parliament will be vibrant, and if the parliament is vibrant, the streets will be aware).

Rana emphasized that his focus remains rooted in awareness and social responsibility rather than political ambition. “I am one of the 175 crore people of this country. So, I have no ambition to enter the political world at the moment, and don’t even wish to,” he stated. He acknowledged having a political understanding but clarified that he prefers to live in the present. “I don’t plan anything and leave it to god. I believe in the truth of the moment.”

A Passionate Return to Theatre

While politics isn’t on his radar, theatre certainly is. Ashutosh recently made a triumphant return to the stage after 24 years, playing the role of Ravan in Humare Ram, a play presented by Felicity Theatre. The production, which kicked off in Delhi, is now touring cities like Kolkata, Rajkot, and Ahmedabad.

“Theatre is our home ground. A place where my acting journey started,” said Rana, who began his career with the prestigious National School of Drama. Talking about the experience of being back, he remarked, “The peace and comfort that an actor gets while performing in theatre can’t be matched with anything... It is really special. We communicate and connect with the audience while performing on the stage.”

When asked about his long absence from the theatre scene, Rana explained that he was waiting for the right time and the right role. “I aspired to take theatre to the next level and it was done through this play Humare Ram... It is a larger-than-life story. We had to reflect the grandeur, and the stage, which we were able to do with the play. I feel blessed that I got this, which was worth the wait.”

Looking Ahead

With no plans for a political career and a heart rooted in performance, Ashutosh Rana continues to captivate audiences   this time with the magic of live theatre. And while he remains open to life’s possibilities, for now, he walks a path defined by art, expression, and purpose.