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Anupam Kher Shares "Strange, Scary" Feeling in Empty Theatre Before Play Premiere

Anupam Kher expressed a mix of fear and excitement while standing in the empty NCPA Tata Theatre ahead of his new play's premiere. His play, 'Jaane Pehchane Anjane', is a musical with music by Anu Malik and is directed by Gajendra Ahire. The production explores the complexities of relationships and how familiar people can remain strangers. It features a cast including Swaroop Sampat and has vocals from singers like Shaan and Sukhwinder Singh.

Key Points: Anupam Kher on Premiere Nerves for New Play 'Jaane Pehchane Anjane'

  • Actor shares pre-show nerves
  • Play is a musical by Anu Malik
  • Explores modern relationships
  • Features Swaroop Sampat in cast
  • Premiere at NCPA Mumbai
2 min read

Anupam Kher feels "strange, scary" ahead of new play 'Jaane Pehchane Anjane' premiere

Anupam Kher describes the "strange/scary" feeling in an empty theatre ahead of the world premiere of his new musical play 'Jaane Pehchane Anjane'.

Anupam Kher feels "strange, scary" ahead of new play 'Jaane Pehchane Anjane' premiere
"Standing alone in an empty auditorium is always a strange/scary feeling. - Anupam Kher"

Mumbai, April 11

A day before the world premiere of his new play 'Jaane Pehchane Anjane', actor Anupam Kher took to social media to share a personal note, offering a glimpse into the emotions that accompany him at the moment.

In a video from an empty auditorium, Kher shared his "strange/scary" feelings.

"Standing alone in an empty auditorium is always a strange/scary feeling. Today, I'm at the iconic NCPA #TataTheatre ... quiet, still... almost watching me. An empty theatre can be a little frightening. The silence is loud. The seats feel like they are waiting...judging... questioning. But at the same time, it is incredibly exciting. Because in another 48hrs, this very silence will turn into applause (hopefully), laughter, emotions... life," he wrote.

The actor noted how theatre has always remained magical to him, even when it is empty.

"Theatre has always been magical for me... even when it is empty. Maybe especially then. Come share our opening night excitement with us!" he added.

Anupam Kher's new play 'Jaane Pehchane Anjane' is set to have a world premiere on Sunday, April 12, at the iconic NCPA, Mumbai.

Written and directed by Gajendra Ahire, the musical has been led by Anu Malik.

"PROUD ANNOUNCEMENT! I am delighted to announce the WORLD PREMIERE of my new play, #JaanePehchaneAnjane, on 12th April 2026 at the iconic NCPA, Mumbai. This musical by legendary Anu Malik, written and directed by the brilliant Gajendra Ahire, has been a labour of love for a long time. Every moment, every note, every word has been crafted with passion and purpose," Anupam Kher wrote in a post earlier this month.

He further added, "This play is not just a story. It is a reflection of you. Your relationships, your memories, your emotions--unfolding live on stage."

The stage production is presented by Anupam Kher Studio, featuring Kher with actor Swaroop Sampat.

The play explores relationships in today's world. It follows how people who seem familiar to each other can still remain strangers in many ways. The story delves into emotions, memories, and connections between people through drama and music.

Singers Shaan, Sukhwinder Singh, and Anandi Joshi have lent their voices to the songs. Lyrics for the play have been written by Kausar Munir, while choreography is handled by Chirag Aggarwal.

The production also includes actors Meghna Malik, Maya Sharma, Vikas Rawat, Shraddha Mandale, and Herman De Souza in the cast.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Anupam Kher sir is a legend! His passion for theatre is so inspiring. The play's theme about familiar strangers is so relevant in today's fast-paced life. Hope I can get tickets for the Mumbai show!
M
Meghna Malik
As someone who has worked in theatre, I can totally relate to that "loud silence" he describes. It's a mix of fear and incredible excitement. Best of luck to the whole team! The musical score by Anu Malik is something I'm eagerly waiting to hear.
A
Aditya G
The production value seems top-notch with Shaan and Sukhwinder Singh singing. But I do hope the play's story has depth and isn't just carried by star power. Wishing them well, but Indian theatre needs strong narratives above all.
S
Sarah B
It's fascinating to see such a raw, vulnerable side of an actor we usually see as so confident. The description of the empty seats "judging" is so poetic. The arts scene in Mumbai is truly world-class.
K
Karthik V
NCPA is the perfect venue for this. Anupam Kher and Swaroop Sampat together after so long? That's a major throwback! Yaar, this is a must-watch. Hope they do a tour across other metro cities after Mumbai.

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