Vrajesh Hirjee on 30 Years of Acting: Comedy, Theatre, and the Joy of Performance
Vrajesh Hirjee, known for his roles in films like Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai and numerous television shows, says he has never wanted to do anything but act. Now at 55, after three decades in the industry, he remains content with his journey and unbothered by being typecast in comedy roles.
In a recent interview, Hirjee discussed his latest theatrical performance with Aadyam Theatre's production Dil Ka Haal Sune Dilwala, his love for the stage, and his philosophy on comedy. He described theatre as 'riyaaz'—a space for unlearning and relearning—and praised director Mohit Takalkar for his insistence on finding truth in every moment, even the funniest.
Hirjee emphasized that comedy requires complete honesty. 'In the absence of honesty, there can be no comedy,' he said, adding that the audience's positive reactions have made the challenging process worthwhile. He also shared insights on handling disappointment when a joke falls flat: an actor must not disappoint, but if they do, they must hide it and go back to the drawing board.
Reflecting on his career, Hirjee noted that he began acting in theatre long before his television debut, performing over ten plays in various languages. He values each medium—film, theatre, audio, and TV—for the unique challenges and lessons they offer. 'The role is the thing. That is where the creative satisfaction is to be found,' he said.
When asked if he would do anything differently, Hirjee said no. 'Truth be told, I had never imagined a journey. All I have ever wanted to do is act. From that perspective, my journey this far has been all I could have imagined and more.'
Hirjee's latest play, Dil Ka Haal Sune Dilwala, features him playing multiple roles—a rare opportunity that he says interested him immediately. He credited the superb script, the collaborative team at Aadyam Theatre and Aasakta Kalamanch, and the precision demanded by Takalkar for making the experience a joy.
For aspiring actors, Hirjee's career offers a lesson in persistence and dedication to craft. He continues to embrace new challenges, proving that contentment in one's work is the ultimate reward.
