Remembering Pandit Banaras Tiwari: The Man Behind OMG 2 Actor Pankaj Tripathi's Success

The tale of Pankaj Tripathi's journey to stardom originates in the quaint Belasand village nestled within Bihar's Gopalganj district. A land steeped in tradition and values, it was here that Pankaj Tripathi's roots ran deep. In a candid interview in 2018, the actor shed light on the prevailing trends in his hometown and the preferences of his father, Pandit Banaras Tiwari. He revealed that in the heart of Gopalganj, only two professions were recognized as prestigious – medicine and engineering.

By  Prerit Chauhan August 22nd 2023 02:51 PM -- Updated: August 23rd 2023 11:16 AM

In the exhilarating world of Bollywood, where fame and fortune often steal the spotlight, there emerges a story of an actor who stands as a testament to both resilience and the unbreakable bond between father and son. Pankaj Tripathi, a name synonymous with versatility and brilliance, has recently found himself at the center of the box office race with "Oh My God 2," rivalling Sunny Deol's "Gadar 2." However, amid the glitz and glamour of the film industry, a somber note marked Monday as Pankaj Tripathi's beloved father, Pandit Banaras Tiwari, bid his final farewell.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Pankaj Tripathi (@pankajtripathi)


The tale of Pankaj Tripathi's journey to stardom originates in the quaint Belasand village nestled within Bihar's Gopalganj district. A land steeped in tradition and values, it was here that Pankaj Tripathi's roots ran deep. In a candid interview in 2018, the actor shed light on the prevailing trends in his hometown and the preferences of his father, Pandit Banaras Tiwari. He revealed that in the heart of Gopalganj, only two professions were recognized as prestigious – medicine and engineering.

The official statement from #PankajTripathi and his family reads:

It’s with a heavy heart to confirm that Pankaj Tripathi’s father, Pandit Banaras Tiwari is no more. He lived a wholesome life of 99 years. His last rites will be performed today amongst his close family. Pankaj… pic.twitter.com/tkBQPqGier

— Filmfare (@filmfare) August 21, 2023

What makes this narrative all the more poignant is the fact that Pankaj's career choice did not align with his father's aspirations. Initially, his father harbored hopes of seeing him don the white coat of a doctor, not the costumes of an actor. Pankaj recalled how his father remained unaware of his pursuit of acting for a considerable period. It was only when he discovered his son's chosen path that Pandit Banaras Tiwari extended wholehearted support, despite never setting foot in the bustling city of Mumbai, where Pankaj's dreams were coming to life.


Intriguingly, Pankaj Tripathi's father held a distinct aversion to the towering skyscrapers and the fast-paced urban lifestyle of Mumbai. The city, a behemoth of dreams and aspirations, was a far cry from the tranquil surroundings of Gopalganj. Moreover, Pandit Banaras Tiwari had never graced the halls of a cinema. Instead, he would patiently await the screening of his son's films on the television or a computer screen. Recently, Pankaj shared his consideration of installing a television at home for the comfort of his elderly parents, a gesture that reflects his unwavering love and respect for his roots.

OMG 2 actor Pankaj Tripathi's father Banaras Tripathi has passed away. He was 98 years old. Banaras Tripathi passed away in his native village Balsand in Bihar. The exact reason for the death has not been known.#PankajTripathi #PankajTripathiFatherPassedAway #BanarasTripathi pic.twitter.com/fWkEQKFhE0

— Neeraj Tiwari (@NeerajTiwariYT) August 21, 2023

As the news of his father's passing spread, the film fraternity and fans alike poured in their condolences. Pankaj Tripathi, who had shared an exceptionally close bond with his father, is a testament to the idea that one can follow their dreams while honoring their family's values. His journey from Belasand village to the dazzling lights of Bollywood showcases not only his talent but also his indomitable spirit.

Related Post