Lucknow: Actor and dramatist Anil Rastogi, recently awarded Padma Shri, was felicitated by Darpan Lucknow on Tuesday. Friends, family members, colleagues, fellow artists and theatre enthusiasts gathered to celebrate the veteran actor’s contribution to Indian theatre and his longstanding association with Lucknow’s cultural landscape.The felicitation programme saw speakers recalling Rastogi’s journey, his commitment to the stage and his contribution to strengthening theatre activity in the city.Senior stage artist Suryamohan Kulshreshtha said “He has contributed immensely to theatre in Lucknow. It is not easy to establish oneself among so many accomplished artists, but Anil Rastogi carved out his identity through dedication and talent”Recalling Rastogi’s early association with Darpan, the organisation’s president Vidyasagar Gupta said “Rastogi joined Darpan after returning from Europe, where he had completed his postgraduate studies. At that time, there were several established theatre personalities in the group, but within months he proved his mettle through his work”.Folk singer Malini Awasthi said the biggest achievement for any artist is when peers and fellow practitioners come together to celebrate their success. “I first saw him on Doordarshan, and over the years I have seen many talented artists leave theatre. But Anil ji never gave up. He continued working with commitment and earned this honour,” she said.Theatre personality Gopal Sinha said, “Anil ji’s success feels like our own. He has set a benchmark for all of us, and I hope he is honoured with the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan too for his work in theatre.”
