Ashish Vidyarthi interview: On turning a stand-up comedian with ‘Sit Down Ashish’ and extra

Ashish Vidyarthi
| Photograph Credit score: Particular Association

Ashish Vidyarthi is a reputation that resonates with cinema lovers. Identified for his versatility, he might be the chilling antagonist, the disciplined father determine, the witty detective, or any distinct supporting character. After solidifying his fame as a veteran actor with over 4 a long time’ expertise, together with 300-plus movies in 11 languages, Asish, 59, continues to hunt new avenues.

After turning a vlogger and motivational speaker, the Nationwide Movie Award recipient’s newest curiosity is stand-up comedy. Ashish has already carried out over 70 reveals this 12 months throughout India, together with in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai.

“I’m naturally captivated with life and desperate to discover its many sides. I’m a agency believer in hope. I would like individuals to remain linked with hope as a result of when we now have hope, we put money into ourselves,” he says, after we interview him throughout his current go to to Madurai for the ‘Sit Down Ashish’ particular.

Ashish Vidyarthi
| Photograph Credit score:
Particular Association

Regardless of 40 years of stardom, Ashish says he nonetheless faces criticism and makes an attempt to deliver him down. “Everytime you try to do one thing completely different, there’s at all times a gaggle of people that will say, ‘That’s sufficient, sit down.’” However he doesn’t wish to sit down. “I’ll arise and do comedy,” he says. His objective isn’t just to make individuals giggle however supply one thing that they will relate to. “I see my stand-up comedy as a means for individuals to giggle within the second, and after they go away, to remove one thing that enables them to smile even when life appears to frown upon them,” he provides.

Whereas embarking on a brand new journey as a comic, he emphasises the significance of being open to new territories. “I’ve at all times been pushing boundaries because the begin of my profession. I made an effort to step into Kollywood whereas I used to be engaged on Hindi motion pictures, and later ventured into Telugu cinema. That’s the way it has at all times been.”

He credit star comedians like Zakir Khan, Vir Das, Samay Raina, Abhishek Upmanyu, Russell Peters, and Dave Chappelle who impressed him to search out his personal voice in comedy.

Roles and stardom

Along with his important roles in Dhill, Ghilli, Kanthaswamy and Uthamaputhiran, the Delhi-born actor has showcased his versatility in connecting with various audiences. His performances have left an indelible mark, making him a beloved determine in Tamil cinema. “I nonetheless sit up for nice roles whereas touring, discovering, and sharing new tales with my viewers. Above all, the important thing a part of my life is to make a distinction in my very own life and the lives of others by choosing the proper roles,” he shares.

Persons are usually tempted to pursue appearing or stardom after watching it from afar. Ashish agrees that the fact behind the glamour usually entails relentless striving and resilience. “To all these aspiring actors and performers, I would like them to remain linked to yourselves. They might come very near success someday, obtain success, or discover that success appears unachievable the subsequent. These days, individuals are likely to get obsessive about the variety of views and the amount of cash they make. Keep in mind, appearing or performing is supposed to satisfy life, so one shouldn’t let it mentally unhinge.”

Ashish Vidyarthi
| Photograph Credit score:
Particular Association

Ashish additionally takes the time to replicate on his experiences and appreciates the journey as a lot because the vacation spot. “I’m grateful for every part that has occurred this 12 months. I’ve allowed myself to be touched and sculpted by life and folks.”

As 2025 approaches, he shares his motto: To stay life amazingly. He plans to launch on-line programs designed to encourage and encourage individuals. With a lot in retailer, he continues to embrace new alternatives and discover methods to attach with and uplift his viewers.