‘My Journey Has Been Different, I Did Films First and Then Theatre,’ Says Minissha Lamba at Khidkiyaan Theatre Film Festival

Actress Minissha Lamba believes that while cinema, OTT platforms and theatre each offer a unique form of entertainment, nothing quite compares to the magic of a live performance. Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the Khidkiyaan Theatre Film Festival, the actress opened up about the distinct experience of watching theatre, the intimate connection it creates between performers and audiences, and her own unconventional journey into the world of stage acting. Reflecting on how her career took a different route from that of many actors, Minissha explained why theatre continues to hold a special place in her heart.

When asked what theatre offers that cinema or OTT platforms cannot, Minissha highlighted the importance of having different entertainment experiences to choose from. She said, “Well, we need various platforms for entertainment. Films have their own unique charm, and watching content on OTT at home, in the comfort of one's own space, offers a completely different experience. Then there is the experience of going out to watch a live play or a performance—whether it’s a street performance or a high-calibre stage production. We enjoy variety, and there is simply nothing like watching a live performance unfold right before your eyes.” Her response emphasised that every medium has its own appeal, but live theatre offers an immediacy that cannot easily be replicated on screen.

Speaking about her personal journey, Minissha pointed out that her experience was different from the conventional path followed by many performers who begin their careers in theatre before moving to films. “Many people note that many actors begin in theatre before transitioning to cinema; however, my own journey has been different—I worked in films first, and then, 15 years later, I ventured into theatre,” she shared. The actress acknowledged that the two mediums are vastly different, each demanding its own approach and offering a distinct experience for performers. Her journey reflects how an established screen career can also lead an actor towards discovering new creative possibilities on stage.

Minissha went on to explain what makes theatre particularly rewarding for an actor, highlighting the immediate and visible response of a live audience. “As an actor, theatre fosters a unique intimacy with the audience; you can actually see them, hear them catch their breath, and share in their laughter. You become completely immersed in a live performance—there is a distinct, magical quality to it that is truly one of a kind,” she said. Unlike films, where performances are recorded, edited and presented to viewers later, theatre unfolds in real time. Every reaction becomes part of the experience, making each performance feel personal and unique. For an actor, that direct connection can be both challenging and deeply fulfilling.

Minissha made her acting debut with Shoojit Sircar’s Yahaan in 2005, earning attention for her performance in the war-romance drama. She subsequently appeared in films such as Corporate, Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd., Bachna Ae Haseeno, Kidnap and Well Done Abba, working across different genres and collaborating with prominent filmmakers. Although she initially aspired to become a journalist, she entered the entertainment industry through modelling before finding her way to cinema. Over the years, she has also explored television, digital entertainment and professional poker, demonstrating interests beyond mainstream acting.

Her move into theatre marked another chapter in that evolving journey, with her stage debut in the solo English play Mirror Mirror. Speaking at the Khidkiyaan Theatre Film Festival, Minissha’s reflections offered a reminder that an actor’s creative journey does not have to follow a fixed formula. Whether through films, streaming platforms or live performances, each medium provides opportunities to discover different aspects of the craft. For Minissha Lamba, theatre’s greatest magic lies in its ability to bring performers and audiences together in the same moment, creating an experience that exists only once and is shared by everyone in the room.