Pankaj Tripathi Reflects on Auditioning for Ram Gopal Varma, Reveals ‘He Never Called Me Back’

Early in his career, Pankaj Tripathi, now a revered figure in Hindi cinema, sought to make a mark by auditioning for a goon’s role in a Ram Gopal Varma film. Sharing this incident during a recent episode of Aap Ki Adalat, Tripathi recounted his initial encounter with the renowned director.

First meeting of Pankaj Tripathi with Ram Gopal Verma

In his pursuit of opportunities as a newcomer in Mumbai, Pankaj Tripathi approached Ram Gopal Varma, the director of Satya. Confirming the authenticity of the incident, Tripathi revealed some intriguing details. He described the unique experience of being asked to sit on a bench designed for four people during his meeting with Varma.

Interestingly, Varma instructed him to sit on one side, creating an awkward scenario as if anticipating additional people joining the bench. Tripathi recalled, “He sat there in front, watching me. Now, if someone watches you for 10-15 mins, you will feel awkward and wonder where to look! Then he asked me to leave and never called me back.”

Ram Gopal Verma applauds Pankaj Tripathi

Despite this initial encounter, Tripathi praised Varma as a fantastic director. In a later interaction, Varma appreciated Tripathi’s work, highlighting the significance of timing in the industry. Tripathi reflected on the situation, expressing gratitude for not being cast at that particular moment. He remarked, “If he had cast me then, it would have been his loss and mine as well. When something isn’t happening in life, never be sad. Something better is going to happen.”

Tripathi also shared an amusing observation from his visit to Varma’s office, where he noticed intimidating-looking individuals who turned out to be aspiring actors. These individuals, hoping for Varma’s casting, would often roam around with fake scars and blood on their faces. Tripathi recounted a conversation with them, where they explained, “Ram Gopal Varma khatarnaak aadmiyo ki he casting karta hai” (Ram Gopal Varma casts dangerous-looking individuals). This insight into the casting process added a humorous twist to Tripathi’s early experiences in the film industry.”