Anupam Shyam, a name that resonated with talent, charisma, and versatility, left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions through his stellar performances. Whether it was on stage, the small screen, or the silver screen, Anupam’s acting prowess shone brightly, showcasing his exceptional talent to the world. While many knew him primarily as a television actor, a closer look at his filmography reveals a treasure trove of remarkable cinematic performances.
Anupam Shyam was born on September 20, 1957, in a village near Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh, into a family of farmers. His full name was Anupam Shyam Ojha. Even during his school days in the village, Anupam felt drawn to the magic of films and harbored dreams of becoming a part of the silver screen.
After completing his college education in Pratapgarh, Anupam pursued his passion for acting by enrolling at the Bhartendu Academy of Dramatic Arts in Lucknow. It was here that he honed his acting skills and ventured into the world of theater. His journey from Lucknow’s theater scene eventually led him to the prestigious National School of Drama (NSD) in Delhi.
At NSD, Anupam Shyam joined the Repertory Company and had the opportunity to work under the guidance of renowned theater directors like Pandit Satyadev Dubey and Ibrahim Alkazi. Despite facing ridicule from villagers whenever he returned home, Anupam remained undeterred in his pursuit of his dreams.
Anupam foray into the world of cinema began when he received offers for two significant films, Bernardo Bertolucci’s “Little Buddha” and Shekhar Kapoor’s “Bandit Queen,” while still in Delhi. Encouraged by these opportunities, Anupam made the move to Mumbai to explore the possibilities of a career in the film industry. However, his initial experiences in Mumbai were limited to small roles in television shows aired on Doordarshan.
It was Mahesh Bhatt who played a pivotal role in shaping Anupam film career. After working with Bhatt in “Bandit Queen” and “Little Buddha,” Anupam began receiving offers for roles in mainstream Bollywood films. Over the years, he delivered memorable performances in movies like “The Warrior,” “Lagaan,” “Golmaal,” and “Slumdog Millionaire,” among others.
While Anupam made a significant impact on the big screen, it was his role as Thakur Sajjan Singh in the Star Plus show “Mann Ki Awaaz Pratigya” that catapulted him to widespread fame. His portrayal of the complex and compelling character endeared him to audiences across the country, earning him widespread recognition and acclaim.
Despite his success on television and in films, Anupam Shyam remained grounded and committed to his craft. He continued to work tirelessly, leaving an indelible mark with each performance.
In his personal life, Anupam Shyam was married to Savitri, but details about their family life remain private. He pursued post-graduation studies at Ram Manohar Lohia University, Faizabad, where he shared the academic journey with his brother Anurag Ojha.
Anupam contributions were not limited to the entertainment industry alone. He actively participated in social and political causes, including the Anna movement in 2011. He even expressed interest in contesting Lok Sabha elections on a BJP ticket from Allahabad or Pratapgarh.
In 2020, Anupam Shyam health became a matter of concern when reports surfaced about his serious illness and financial struggles. The film fraternity, along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, came forward to offer financial assistance for his treatment. Despite battling with illness, Anupam resumed shooting for the second season of “Mann Ki Awaaz Pratigya,” but sadly, he succumbed to his illness, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished forever.
Anupam Shyam journey from a small village in Uttar Pradesh to the glitz and glamour of Bollywood is a testament to his resilience, talent, and passion for acting. His contributions to Indian cinema and television will continue to inspire generations to come.