Pankaj Tripathi on Daughter Aashi’s Acting Debut: “New Generation Is Very Sharp”

Actor Pankaj Tripathi has shared heartfelt reflections on watching his daughter Aashi make her stage debut. The young performer appeared in the play Lailaaj, marking the first production by Roopkatha Rangmanch — the theatre group founded by Pankaj and his wife, Mridula Tripathi.

In an interview with Hindustan Times, Tripathi revealed how impressed he was with Aashi’s quick grasp of performance techniques and her willingness to accept feedback.

“She took it very well. By the third show, I saw clear improvement,” he said. “She was sharper than me. When our teachers explained these things to us, it took us one or two years to absorb them. She achieved that miracle in just three shows. This new generation is very sharp, very advanced — but the challenges they face are also sharper and more advanced.”

“Children Should Have the Freedom to Choose”

Tripathi also addressed whether Aashi plans to pursue acting professionally. He said she has not made a decision yet, but he will fully support whichever path she chooses.

“I will let her find her way,” he said. “I know the difficulties on this path. Either I can scare her now, or I can give her the freedom to do her thing her way. This freedom should be given to all kids. Tell them to do what they want, and even if they fail, it’s no big deal.”

Tripathi has often emphasised the importance of not imposing careers or expectations on children, encouraging exploration instead of pressure.

What’s Next for Pankaj Tripathi

On the professional front, Pankaj Tripathi was last seen in Anurag Basu’s Metro In Dino, co-starring Konkona Sen Sharma. He is currently filming two major upcoming projects:

• Mirzapur – The Film

• Parivarak Manuranjan, featuring Aditi Rao Hydari
  Both titles are scheduled for release in 2026.

Tripathi’s continued success across film and streaming has made him one of India’s most respected performers, while his daughter’s debut marks the beginning of a potential new chapter for the Tripathi family in theatre and cinema.