Lucknow: Dr. Anil Rastogi—also known as Dr. Anil Kumar Rastogi—is a rare blend of intellect and imagination. A retired senior scientist from the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), Lucknow, and an iconic figure in Indian theatre and cinema, he was conferred the Padma Shri in 2026 for his extraordinary contribution to theatre, films, and cultural arts. At over eight decades of life, Dr. Rastogi continues to perform, inspire, and redefine what it means to live passionately. Dr. Anil Rastogi’s life stands as a powerful reminder that creativity and intellect can coexist, and that passion knows no age. His Padma Shri is not just an honour for an individual, but a celebration of India’s rich theatre tradition and the timeless spirit of dedication.
Padma Shri awardee and veteran Lucknow-based actor and theatre artist Dr. Anil Kumar Rastogi has been devoted to social service for more than 27 years through Hari Om Seva Kendra. Established in 1997, the Kendra has become a lifeline for poor and destitute patients by providing free medicines, blood, food, ambulance services, and essential medical equipment. Working closely with King George’s Medical University (KGMU), the organisation continues to support hundreds of needy families with compassion and consistency.
Beyond his humanitarian work, Dr. Rastogi is a respected figure in the fields of arts and culture. He is a Fellow of the National Academy of Sciences of India and a Fellow of the Uttar Pradesh Sangeet Natak Academy. His contributions have been recognised with several prestigious honours, including the Yash Bharti Award, the highest civilian award of the Uttar Pradesh Government, the Kalidas Samman from the Madhya Pradesh Government, and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award by the Government of India.
In this candid interview, he reflects on his dual journey through science and the performing arts, the honour of the Padma Shri, and his enduring love for theatre.
Q1. Congratulations on receiving the Padma Shri. What does this honour mean to you?
Dr. Anil Rastogi: Thank you. The Padma Shri is a matter of immense pride and gratitude. I see it not as a personal achievement alone, but as recognition of the collective effort of my CDRI colleagues, theatre colleagues, filmmakers, mentors, students, and my family. It motivates me to continue working with even greater sincerity.
Q2. You’ve had two full-fledged careers—one in science and another in the arts. How did you balance both?
Dr. Rastogi: For me, science and theatre were never in conflict. Science gave me discipline, observation, and analytical thinking, while theatre gave me emotional depth and expression. I worked at CDRI during the day and rehearsed or performed in the evenings. Passion makes balance possible.
Q3. How did your scientific background influence your acting?
Dr. Rastogi: Science trains you to observe minutely and understand cause and effect. I applied the same approach to characters—studying their psychology, motivations, and context. That analytical mindset helped me create more layered and believable performances.
Q4. You have completed over 1,000 theatre performances and recently your 100th play. What keeps theatre so close to your heart?
Dr. Rastogi: Theatre is alive. The connection with a live audience is irreplaceable. Every performance is different, every reaction spontaneous. Theatre shaped me as a human being and an artist—it is my first love and will always remain so.
Q5. From stage to films and OTT platforms, how do you see the evolution of acting mediums?
Dr. Rastogi: Each medium has its own language. Theatre demands projection and immediacy, cinema requires subtlety, and OTT offers space for long-form storytelling. I enjoy adapting myself—it keeps me learning and young at heart.
Q6. Even in your 80s, you remain active in films and theatre. What drives this energy?
Dr. Rastogi: Curiosity and commitment. As long as my mind is alert and my body cooperates, I want to work. Art gives me purpose, and purpose gives me energy.
Q7. Your journey has strong roots in Lucknow and Uttar Pradesh’s theatre culture. How important is that connection?
Dr. Rastogi: Very important. Lucknow shaped my sensibility, my language, and my aesthetics. I am deeply committed to promoting theatre in Uttar Pradesh and supporting young artists here.
Q8. How important has family support been in your journey?
Dr. Rastogi: Absolutely crucial. My wife, Sudha Rastogi, has been my pillar of strength. Her understanding and encouragement made it possible for me to pursue both science and theatre without compromise. Also my late elder brother Chandra Kishore Rastogi
Q9. What message would you like to give to young artists and professionals?
Dr. Rastogi: Never think it’s too late or too difficult to follow your passion. Be sincere, keep learning, and respect your craft. Whether in science or art, honesty in work always finds its reward.
