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Dr. Anil Kumar Rastogi: Bridging science and the stage
Often revered as the Bhishma Pitamah of Lucknow theatre, Dr. Rastogi has been central to the city’s cultural life.
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Zafar Iqbal - Thu, 29, Jan 2026
- 02:02 EST
- 20
Dr. Anil Kumar Rastogi / Zafar Iqbal
The 2026 Padma Shri awarded to Dr. Anil Kumar Rastogi of Lucknow celebrates a life of extraordinary range. A distinguished scientist, veteran theatre artist, acclaimed film and television actor, and dedicated social worker, Dr. Rastogi embodies a rare synthesis of intellectual rigor, artistic passion, and public service.
I first met Dr. Rastogi as my immediate senior in the Biochemistry Department at Lucknow University. Our careers began at the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), Lucknow, where he joined as a Junior Research Fellow in 1962 and I a year later. I still recall our shared rides on his motorcycle to French classes, then a PhD requirement. I was fortunate to attend his wedding to Sudha ji in 1962.
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Dr. Rastogi’s scientific career spanned over four decades. Rising to Head of Biochemistry and Director-Grade Scientist at CDRI before retiring in 2003, he authored around 100 peer-reviewed papers and guided numerous doctoral and medical students. His election as a Fellow of the National Academy of Sciences, India, and recognition as a distinguished CDRI alumnus underscore his leadership and lasting influence on Indian science.
Equally remarkable is his parallel journey in the performing arts. With over 60 years on stage, radio, television, and film, Dr. Rastogi has acted in more than 100 plays, delivered over 1,000 theatre performances, appeared in more than 500 television episodes, and featured in 60–70 films and OTT productions. His cinematic work, including Ishqzaade, Mukti Bhavan, Raid, Mulk, Article 15, Z Plus, and Mission Raniganj, has drawn national and international acclaim for its depth and nuance.
Often revered as the Bhishma Pitamah of Lucknow theatre, Dr. Rastogi has been central to the city’s cultural life. Through his long association with the theatre group Darpan, he staged landmark productions such as Andha Yug, Mudrarakshas, Khamosh Adalat Jaari Hai, and Pakshi Ja Pakshi Aa, the latter touring India for nearly two decades at a time when theatre thrived on passion and minimal resources. His artistic excellence has been honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Yash Bharati, Kalidas Samman, and multiple lifetime achievement recognitions.
Dr. Rastogi’s dedication extends far beyond science and the arts. For nearly 30 years, he and his brother have run the Hari Om Seva Kendra in Lucknow, providing vital medical aid, including life-saving injections, blood transfusions, ambulance services, and dialysis kits, to those in need.
Rooted in Lucknow, Dr. Rastogi credits CDRI and the city’s rich cultural heritage for shaping his journey. The Padma Shri not only honors his achievements but also celebrates a life where science, art, and compassion converge, leaving an indelible impact on the community and the nation.
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