As the world gears up to celebrate World Theatre Day on March 27, actress Raviraa Bhardwaj shares her thoughts on the art form that shaped her journey. Known for her captivating performances, she credits theatre for laying the foundation of her craft.

Reflecting on her theatre experience, Raviraa states, “Yes, I have done theatre, and it has been instrumental in shaping my craft. Theatre teaches discipline, spontaneity, and the power of live performance, where you can’t rely on retakes.” She believes that stage acting refines voice modulation, stage presence, and the ability to connect with audiences in real time.

In today’s digital era, where OTT platforms dominate entertainment, does live performance still hold value? “Live performance creates a direct and raw connection with the audience, something that digital content can’t fully replicate,” Raviraa explains. She firmly believes that theatre remains the backbone of the entertainment industry, producing some of the finest actors and storytellers.

Many actors owe their careers to theatre, and Raviraa acknowledges its contribution. “Absolutely! Many legendary actors started their journeys in theatre. It has shaped the industry by nurturing talent, promoting strong storytelling, and preserving the essence of powerful performances.”

Raviraa emphasizes the importance of sustaining theatre, calling it the “purest form of acting and storytelling.” She highlights how theatre fosters creativity and cultural heritage, adding, “Keeping theatre alive ensures that the essence of live performance, which teaches actors discipline and authenticity, continues to thrive.”

Despite budget constraints, theatre continues to flourish in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Lucknow, Pune, and Jaipur. “Theatre budgets may be lower than films, but passion and storytelling drive it. People who truly appreciate acting and performances still go to watch plays, keeping the theatre scene alive.”

Would she return to the stage? “Yes, I would love to do theatre again. The energy of a live audience and the challenge of performing without cuts or edits is exhilarating. It’s a different kind of artistic satisfaction that film or digital content can’t fully provide.”

Raviraa’s last theatre experience was the grand adaptation of Mughal-e-Azam. “The scale, performances, and storytelling were mesmerizing, proving that theatre still has the power to captivate audiences.”

As she continues to make her mark in the entertainment industry, Raviraa’s passion for theatre remains unwavering. On World Theatre Day, her words serve as a reminder of the timeless impact of the stage.