Beyond the Villain: How Ashish Vidyarthi Reclaimed His Identity at 60!

The World is My Set: Inside Ashish Vidyarthi’s Pan-India Filmography!

In the ever-evolving world of Indian cinema, Ashish Vidyarthi stands as a rare "polyglot performer." A National Award-winning veteran who has conquered over 300 films across 11 languages, he is a powerhouse of intensity and a pioneer of the modern "reinvention" lifestyle.

As of February 2026, he is equally famous for his chilling screen presence as he is for his viral "Ashish Vidyarthi Actor Vlogs" and his role as a transformational motivational speaker.

The Journey of a Seeker: Biography

• Born: June 19, 1965, in Delhi.
• A Cultural Mosaic: He was born to a Malayali father (Govind Vidyarthi, a theater expert) and a Bengali mother (Reba Vidyarthi, a Kathak guru). This multicultural upbringing laid the foundation for his incredible linguistic flexibility.
• Academic Roots: An alumnus of Hindu College, he later joined the National School of Drama (NSD), graduating in 1990.
• The "Billion Smiles" Philosophy: Ashish famously identifies as an "Also" person—an actor also a seeker, also a vlogger.
• Personal Life: In May 2023, he made headlines for his second marriage to entrepreneur Rupali Barua. His son from his first marriage to Rajoshi (Piloo) Vidyarthi, Arth Vidyarthi, currently works at Tesla in the U.S.

 

A Filmography Without Frontiers

Ashish Vidyarthi is perhaps the only actor to have been a "top-tier" villain in nearly every major Indian film industry simultaneously.

The National Award & Bollywood Era

• Drohkaal (1994): His role as the ruthless Commander Bhadra won him the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor, arguably the most intense debut of the 90s.
• Is Raat Ki Subah Nahin (1996): As Ramanbhai, he received the Star Screen Award for Best Villain, setting a new tone for gritty Mumbai underworld characters.
• 1942: A Love Story (1994) & Ziddi (1997): Established him as a versatile supporting actor and a formidable antagonist.

Dominating South Indian Cinema

• Ghilli (2004 - Tamil): His portrayal of Sivasubramanian (the father) is iconic, blending intensity with dark comedic beats.
• Athanokkade (2005 - Telugu): Won the Filmfare Award for Best Villain (Telugu).
• Pokiri (2006 - Telugu): His role as the corrupt Sub-inspector Pasupathy remains a fan favorite.

The OTT & 2026 Renaissance

Vidyarthi has successfully transitioned to the digital space, recently seen in:

• Rana Naidu (2023): Playing the complex Surya Malviya.
• Aavesham (2024 - Malayalam): Reaffirming his status in regional blockbusters.
• Kahanibaaz (2026): His recent storytelling tour across India (including a major show in Guwahati in January 2026) showcasing his "storyteller avatar."

 

Reinventing Stardom: The Motivational Speaker

Beyond the camera, Ashish is the curator of "Avid Miner Conversations." * Corporate Transformation: He conducts workshops for global giants like HSBC, Wipro, and Airtel, focusing on resilience and "Emptying the Cup."

• YouTube Success: With over 2.3 million subscribers, his food and travel vlogs are a masterclass in connecting with the common man.

The Legend Recovers: Industry Prays for Screenwriter Salim Khan!

In a significant medical update for the Bollywood fraternity and fans of the "Bhaijaan" family, legendary screenwriter Salim Khan is showing signs of recovery at Mumbai's Lilavati Hospital.

Following his hospitalization on February 17, 2026, due to high blood pressure and a minimal brain hemorrhage, the 90-year-old veteran underwent a successful Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA). His attending physician, Dr. Jalil Parkar, has expressed optimism, stating that the icon is stable and likely to be taken off the ventilator by February 19, 2026.

 

Key Highlights of Salim Khan's Health Update

• Procedure Performed: Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA).
• Diagnosis: Minimal brain hemorrhage triggered by high blood pressure.
• Current Status: Stable in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
• Next Step: Removal of ventilator support expected on February 19.
• Medical Team: Led by Dr. Jalil Parkar (Pulmonologist), including Dr. Vinay Chavan (Neurologist), Dr. Ajit Menon (Cardiologist), and Dr. Nitin Dange (Neurosurgeon).

 

Understanding the Procedure: What is DSA?

Many fans were concerned about the term "angiography." In Salim Khan's case, doctors performed a Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA), which is a specialized imaging technique.

Unlike traditional heart angiographies, a DSA is a high-tech neurological tool used to visualize blood vessels in the brain. It allowed the specialists to:

1. Locate the Hemorrhage: Precisely identify the area of the "minimal brain hemorrhage."
2. Assess Blood Flow: Ensure there were no further clots or blockages.
3. Non-Surgical Intervention: The doctor clarified that the DSA itself is a "procedure," not major open surgery, which is a positive sign for the 90-year-old screenwriter.

 

Why was Salim Khan on a Ventilator?

Dr. Jalil Parkar clarified that the ventilator was used as a "safeguard" rather than an indication of a critical, life-threatening collapse.

• Precautionary Measure: Because Salim Khan's blood pressure was exceptionally high and he was experiencing "jerks," the ventilator allowed the body to rest while doctors performed the necessary neurological investigations.
• Stability: The doctors emphasized that he was "not critical" in the way some sensationalist reports suggested, but rather "guarded" due to his age.

 

The Khan Family and Industry Support

The news of Salim Khan's hospitalization brought the entire film industry together in prayer.

• Family Presence: Salman Khan rushed to the hospital from his Sikandar shoot in Madh Island. He was joined by siblings Arbaaz, Alvira, and Arpita, as well as Salim Khan’s wives, Salma Khan and Helen.
• Visitors: Long-time creative partner Javed Akhtar visited the hospital twice, alongside close family friend Sanjay Dutt.
• Well-Wishes: Former actor Somy Ali and several cricketers, including Yusuf Pathan, shared heartfelt messages on social media wishing the "Angry Young Men" creator a speedy recovery.

The Mecca of Indian Theatre: A Deep Dive into National School of Drama!

From Mandi House to Bollywood: The Legacy of NSD Alumni!

The National School of Drama (NSD) is widely regarded as the "Mecca" of Indian theatre. Established in 1959, this premier institution has been the nurturing ground for some of the most iconic talents in Indian cinema and stage, including Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, Irrfan Khan, and Pankaj Tripathi.

As of February 2026, NSD continues to be an autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, maintaining its reputation for rigorous training and artistic excellence.

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A Brief History of NSD

• Inception (1959): The school was founded as a constituent unit of the Sangeet Natak Akademi (India's national academy of music, dance, and drama). Its origins trace back to a 1954 seminar where the idea of a central theatre institution was first mooted.
• Asian Theatre Institute (ATI): In 1958, the Asian Theatre Institute was merged with the school, which was initially named the "National School of Drama and Asian Theatre Institute."
• Autonomy (1975): The school became an independent entity in 1975 and moved to its current iconic location at Bahawalpur House, Mandi House, New Delhi.
• The Alkazi Era: Under director Ebrahim Alkazi (1962–1977), the school underwent a massive transformation in its syllabus and infrastructure, creating the legendary open-air theatres (Meghdoot) that are still used today.

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Admission Process 2026: How to Get In

Admission to NSD is one of the most competitive in the country, with only 26 to 32 seats available annually.

Eligibility Criteria

• Education: A Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
• Theatre Experience: Candidates must have participated in at least 6 theatre productions.
• Age Limit: Generally between 18 to 30 years (Relaxation for SC/ST/OBC as per government norms).
• Recommendation: A letter of recommendation from at least one theatre expert.

Selection Stages

1. Stage 1: Preliminary Test: A written exam and an audition conducted in various cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, etc.). This tests general knowledge, art, culture, and basic acting aptitude.
2. Stage 2: Final Workshop: Shortlisted candidates are invited to the Delhi campus for a 5-day residential workshop. Here, faculty members observe candidates’ stamina, creativity, and ability to work in a group.

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The 3-Year Diploma in Dramatic Arts

The flagship course at NSD is a full-time residential program. It is designed to provide a 360-degree understanding of theatre.

Year	Focus Area
First Year	Integrated course covering basics of acting, design, and theatre history.
Second Year	Advanced training in Indian and Western dramatic traditions.
Third Year	Specialization in either Acting or Theatre Techniques & Design.

Performing Wings

• The Repertory Company: Established in 1964, it allows graduates to perform professionally.
• Sanskaar Rang Toli: Also known as the Theatre-in-Education (T.I.E.) company, it focuses on children's theatre and personality development through drama.

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The Pillars of Excellence: Notable Alumni

The impact of NSD on Indian pop culture is undeniable. Its alumni have won numerous National Awards and international acclaim.

• The Legends: Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, Rohini Hattangadi, Anupam Kher.
• The Modern Icons: Irrfan Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Pankaj Tripathi, Manoj Bajpayee (NSD Reject, but trained under alumni), Piyush Mishra.
• Contemporary Stars: Neena Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, Yashpal Sharma, Mukesh Tiwari.

Decoding Bhau Thakurdas Jhawle: How Satya Changed Govind Namdeo’s Career!

The Craft of Villainy: Why Govind Namdeo is Bollywood’s Most Versatile Antagonist!

In the competitive world of Indian cinema, few actors possess the theatrical weight and chilling screen presence of Govind Namdeo. A veteran with a career spanning over three decades, Namdeo has moved beyond the label of a "typical villain" to become one of Bollywood’s most respected character actors.

As of February 2026, his journey continues to reach new milestones, including his recent role in Raid 2 and his upcoming silent performance in Gandhi Talks.

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The Thespian’s Roots: Biography

• Early Life: Born on September 3, 1954, in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, Namdeo’s path was paved with academic and theatrical rigor.
• The NSD Transformation: An alumnus of the National School of Drama (1978 batch), he famously almost quit the institute due to a language barrier (English instruction), but was encouraged by legendary director Ebrahim Alkazi to persevere.
• The Repertory Years: Before the cameras rolled, he spent 11 years with the NSD Repertory Company, mastering complex plays like Othello and Tughlak.
• Family: He lives in Mumbai with his wife, Sudha Namdeo, and their three daughters.

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Defining a Career: Essential Filmography

Namdeo’s filmography is a tapestry of power, corruption, and occasional comedic genius. He has worked with directors ranging from Ram Gopal Varma to David Dhawan.

The "Antagonist" Masterpieces

• Shola Aur Shabnam (1992): His debut as a corrupt police officer established his niche in the commercial circuit.
• Bandit Queen (1994): His role as SriRam showcased a gritty realism that stunned critics.
• Satya (1998): As Bhau Thakurdas Jhawle, he delivered a performance that redefined the "politician-villain." This role earned him a Filmfare nomination for Best Villain.
• Sarfarosh (1999): His portrayal of Veeran remains a highlight of 90s action-thrillers.

Versatility in Character Roles

• OMG – Oh My God! (2012): Namdeo proved his range by playing the satirical, hypocritical Siddheshwar Maharaj, a stark contrast to his earlier "dreaded" roles.
• Singham & Singham Returns: He played pivotal roles in Rohit Shetty’s cop universe, showcasing his ability to lead high-octane drama.
• Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 (2022): His turn as the Tantrik added a layer of traditional horror-thriller tension to the blockbuster.

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The 2025–2026 Roadmap: Recent & Upcoming

Govind Namdeo remains an unstoppable force in the current landscape of cinema and OTT.

Movie/Project	Release Date	Character/Role
Raid 2	May 2025	Raja Kunwar Kuldeep
The Return of the Army Man	Jan 6, 2026	Supporting Lead
Gandhi Talks	Jan 30, 2026	Silent Performance (Dark Comedy)
Ginny Weds Sunny 2	April 24, 2026	Reprising Comic Role

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Awards and Recognitions

Namdeo’s mantle is decorated with accolades that honor his technical skill:

• Best Actor (Television): Screen Award for Mahayagya (1999).
• Best Actor (Cinefan): Awarded for Kabootar (2008/2012) at the Osian's Festival of Asian and Arab Cinema.
• Maharashtra Kala Niketan Award: For his outstanding contribution to Hindi cinema.

Mira Rajput Kapoor: Biography, Career, and the Rise of a Modern Entrepreneur!

From being a college graduate in Delhi to becoming a powerhouse in the Indian wellness and beauty industry, Mira Rajput Kapoor has redefined the narrative of a "star wife." Today, she is recognized not just for her high-profile marriage to Bollywood actor ShahidKapoor, but as a savvy entrepreneur, investor, and digital creator.

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At a Glance: Biography & Early Life

Born on September 7, 1994, in Delhi, Mira grew up in a grounded, non-filmy environment. Her father, Vikramaditya Rajput, is a businessman, and her mother, Bela Rajput, is a homemaker.

 

Personal Detail	Information
Education	Vasant Valley School (Delhi); English Honours from Lady Shri Ram College for Women (LSR)
Family	Two sisters: Priya Rajput Tulshan and Noorjehan Rajput Wadhwani
Marriage	Married Shahid Kapoor on July 7, 2015
Children	Daughter Misha (b. 2016) and Son Zain (b. 2018)

Before her marriage, Mira was known for her academic excellence, reportedly ranking 10th in the CAT exam during her undergraduate years and completing an internship with the United Nations.

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Career: The Entrepreneurial Shift

Mira’s professional journey is a case study in strategic personal branding. After focusing on motherhood in her early 20s, she has transitioned into a "serial entrepreneur" with a multi-crore business portfolio.

1. Akind Skincare (Launched June 2024)

In partnership with Reliance Retail’s Tira Beauty (led by Isha Ambani), Mira co-founded Akind. The brand focuses on "barrier-care" and vegan, cruelty-free formulations tailored for Indian skin types. Its philosophy revolves around "listening to your skin" rather than following fleeting trends.

2. Dhun Wellness (Launched May 2025)

Mira expanded her footprint into the luxury wellness sector with Dhun, a 6,000 sq. ft. sanctuary in Bandra, Mumbai. The center integrates:

• Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
• Sound therapy and cryotherapy.
• Holistic gut-cleanse and sleep-reset programs.

3. Strategic Investments

Mira is a keen investor, backing brands that align with her lifestyle:

• Wellbeing Nutrition: A whole-food supplement brand valued at approximately ₹961 crore (as of March 2025).
• Athletifreak: A premium US-based athleisure brand launched in India in collaboration with her husband and sisters.
• Artium Academy & Zama Organics: Furthering her interests in education and sustainable living.

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Influence and Media Impact

With an Instagram following of nearly 5 million, Mira is a "Mega-Influencer." She has moved away from the "Bollywood wife" label to become a voice for mindful living. Her YouTube series, 'Skin & Within', and her role as a brand ambassador for labels like Kisna Diamond Jewellery and Olay India have solidified her position as a heavy hitter in the lifestyle space.

"I decided to back myself and invest in myself," Mira shared in a recent interview, highlighting her shift from content creation to ownership.

Mira Rajput’s 4-Word Verdict on Shahid Kapoor’s O’Romeo is Going Viral!

Mira Rajput Instagram Post: Her Reaction to Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri’s O’Romeo!

The internet is buzzing following the much-anticipated release of O'Romeo, starring the powerhouse duo of Shahid Kapoor and the "National Crush" Triptii Dimri. While fans have been flooding social media with their takes, one review stands out above the rest: that of Shahid’s biggest cheerleader and toughest critic, Mira Rajput.

Mira recently took to Instagram to share her unfiltered thoughts on the film, and her high praise has sent the "Shamira" fandom into a frenzy.

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"Not a Beat That Misses": Mira’s Glowing Review

After attending a special screening of the romantic thriller, Mira Rajput posted a captivating still of Shahid from the film with a caption that perfectly encapsulated his performance.

"Not a beat that misses, not a frame where you aren't him. O'Romeo is a masterclass in nuance. So proud of you @shahidkapoor!"

She didn't stop there. Mira also gave a massive shoutout to the leading lady, Triptii Dimri, praising the "electrifying chemistry" between the two leads. According to Mira, the film isn't just a romance; it’s a rhythmic journey that keeps you hooked from the opening scene.

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Why 'O'Romeo' is Topping the Charts

The film has become a massive talking point for several reasons:

Feature	Details
Leading Pair	Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri (First-time collaboration)
Genre	Modern-age Romantic Musical Thriller
Direction	Focused on high-intensity emotional arcs and stylized visuals
Music	A chart-busting soundtrack that Mira highlighted as "seamless"

 

The Shahid-Triptii Chemistry

Critics and fans alike are echoing Mira’s sentiments. The pairing of Shahid’s seasoned intensity with Triptii’s ethereal screen presence has been described as the film's "soul." Mira’s public validation of their performance has only added fuel to the film's growing box office fire.

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A Support System Like No Other

Mira Rajput has always been vocal about Shahid’s career choices, often providing a "real-world" perspective on his projects. Her endorsement of O'Romeo carries weight because she is known for her candidness. Whether it was the raw grit of Farzi or the intensity of Kabir Singh, Mira’s Instagram stories have become a reliable "litmus test" for Shahid’s fans.

Fans React to Mira's Post

The comments section of Mira’s post was quickly filled with fans praising the couple's bond.

• "The way Mira supports Shahid is goals!"
• "If Mira says it's good, we're booking our tickets right now."
• "Triptii and Shahid are the duo we didn't know we needed."

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Final Thoughts

With O'Romeo garnering positive reviews from the inner circle and the general public, it looks like Shahid Kapoor has another winner in his filmography. Mira’s "not a beat missed" comment perfectly summarizes the precision and passion Shahid brings to the silver screen.

Have you watched O'Romeo yet? Let us know if you agree with Mira’s verdict!