‘Dhurandhar’ Actor Rakesh Bedi performs solo play ‘Massage’ at Chandigarh University, portrays 24 characters
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, October 24: Veteran Bollywood actor Rakesh Bedi, who earned acclaim for his portrayal of Jameel Jamali in Dhurandhar, enthralled audiences with his solo performance in the Hindi play Massage on the third day of the five-day Dastak Theatre Festival 2026 at Chandigarh University.
Directed by Harbans Singh and written by renowned playwright Vijay Tendulkar, the play showcased Bedi’s versatility as he portrayed 24 different characters, blending comedy, satire and sharp observations on human aspirations and society.
The monologue follows Happy Kumar, an aspiring actor who arrives in Mumbai dreaming of making it big in Bollywood. However, his journey takes unexpected turns as he works as an assistant director for a filmmaker specialising in low-budget cinema. Disillusioned with the film industry, he eventually becomes a masseur, meeting people from different walks of life whose stories reveal the complexities and contradictions of urban society.
Through swift character transitions, expressive dialogue, voice modulation and impeccable comic timing, Bedi kept the audience engaged throughout the performance. From film producers and aspiring actors to politicians and lawyers, each character emerged with a distinct personality, demonstrating the skill and precision required to sustain a demanding solo performance.
Beyond its humour, Massage offers a satirical take on the pursuit of success, the compromises people make to achieve their ambitions and the struggles that often remain hidden behind fame. Happy Kumar’s journey explores the disappointments, setbacks and resilience that shape an ordinary person’s life, with moments of comedy interspersed with reflections on ambition and failure.
Speaking after the performance, Bedi said aspiring actors must train seriously and hone their craft to meet the intense competition in the film industry. He emphasised that acting requires sustained hard work, resilience and a strong command over the art.
Reflecting on his long association with theatre, films and television, Bedi said theatre had kept him active and provided opportunities to learn and evolve as an actor. He also highlighted the enduring relevance of theatre, saying the continued appreciation of audiences demonstrated the art form’s lasting appeal.
Originally written in Marathi by Vijay Tendulkar, Massage is known for its distinctive monologue format, demanding sustained performance through acting, physical expression and vocal versatility.
The five-day Dastak Theatre Festival 2026 has brought a range of theatrical productions and established performers to Chandigarh University, giving students an opportunity to experience live theatre and engage with diverse storytelling styles. The festival highlights theatre’s continuing relevance as an art form and a medium for exploring society and human relationships.