June 02, 2025: Celebrated actor Pankaj Tripathi is making a poignant return to the screen after a deeply personal, year-long break that followed the passing of his father. In an honest and moving conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, the actor opened up about the emotional weight of his absence from public life and the conscious decision to step away from the relentless pace of the industry.
Tripathi, known for letting his work speak louder than his public presence, shared that the past year was a period of grieving, healing, and introspection. “I took time off to work on myself and heal, physically and mentally,” he said. “That’s why I’ve lost weight. I work out three hours a day, six days a week. I also travelled — trips that I’ve been putting off for a long time.”
Far from being a retreat into silence, his hiatus was a deliberate effort to reconnect with his passion for acting. “I kept telling everyone that I don’t have time. But actually, that time was reserved for introspection,” Tripathi admitted.
The break also led to a shift in his mindset. “I’m at a point where I’m no longer working for the money. I need to do work that gives me something to look forward to,” he said. Reflecting on the fatigue that had crept into his earlier projects, Tripathi noted, “There was a time when I was counting days on projects, just waiting for them to end. And I thought — this can’t be right.”
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His return marks a turning point, both personally and professionally. He is set to reprise his role in Criminal Justice: A Family Matter, a series that has previously showcased his powerful, understated performances. This comeback is more than just a new season—it’s a symbol of resilience, purpose, and artistic renewal.
Tripathi’s journey reminds us that even in the most successful of careers, it’s vital to pause, reflect, and realign with what truly matters.