Sanjay Mishra, one of Bollywood’s most versatile actors, has made a name for himself with his unique style and powerful performances. Whether in serious roles or lighthearted comedies, he has consistently won hearts with his portrayals. However, there was a time in his life when fame and success couldn’t fill the void he felt. After the death of his father, Mishra took a drastic step — he left Mumbai and started working at a small dhaba in Rishikesh. Today, on his 60th birthday, let’s take a closer look at this lesser-known chapter of his life.
From Bollywood Stardom to Personal Struggles
Sanjay Mishra’s acting journey began in 1995 with the film Oh Darling Yeh Hai India, though his role was minor compared to the lead stars Shahrukh Khan and Deepa Sahi. He then went on to appear in several films like Bandish, Satya, and Dil Se, steadily gaining recognition. His breakthrough came with the television show Office Office, followed by hits like Golmaal and Dhamaal, which made him a household name in the comedy genre.
But despite his growing success, life dealt him a heavy blow when his father passed away. Mishra was deeply affected by this loss, which compounded the health struggles he was already facing at the time. He later shared in an interview how, while he was ill, his father had rushed him to the hospital, fearing for his life. After recovering from his illness, Mishra had to face the grief of losing his father just days later.
A Journey to Rishikesh: A Search for Solace
Following his father’s death, Sanjay Mishra felt a need to distance himself from the chaos of his life in Mumbai. His fame and recognition seemed to mean little in the face of his grief. To escape, he packed his bags and headed to Rishikesh, seeking solace by the banks of the Ganga.
In Rishikesh, Mishra found an unexpected refuge: a small roadside dhaba. There, he met an elderly man who owned the place and prepared Maggi noodles for his customers. It was a simple life, far removed from the glitz and glamour of Bollywood. Mishra, seeking comfort in simplicity, began working at the dhaba, helping out in any way he could. In those quiet moments, he found some peace away from the constant pressure of the film industry.
Fans Find Him Even at the Dhaba
Despite his desire to escape the limelight, Mishra’s popularity followed him. He recalls how people would come to the dhaba and recognize him, observing him from afar. This fame, ironically, became the reason why he eventually had to leave the dhaba. The elderly owner, who initially welcomed Mishra’s help, eventually asked him to leave, as the attention Mishra was attracting disrupted the quiet life of the dhaba.
In reflecting on this period, Sanjay Mishra has said that working at the dhaba was an experience that helped him reconnect with himself and gain a new perspective on life. He had stepped away from the world of cinema and returned with a deeper understanding of his own purpose.
Back to Acting, But With a New Outlook
Sanjay Mishra eventually returned to Mumbai and resumed his acting career, but he was no longer the same person. The time he spent in Rishikesh had profoundly changed him. He continues to act in films, choosing roles that resonate with him and bringing authenticity to each character he plays. Today, he remains one of Bollywood’s most beloved actors, known not just for his comic timing but for the depth he brings to every role.
