Ankur Vikal is a renowned and award-winning film and stage actor of Indian origin, whose passion for acting was ignited during his working-class upbringing in Gujarat, India. Growing up, he was deeply influenced by his grandfather's captivating stories, which instilled in him a deep appreciation for the power of storytelling.
Ankur's journey in the world of drama began when he graduated from the prestigious National School of Drama (NSD) in New Delhi in 2000. Prior to that, he had studied architecture at Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda. He then went on to work as a multi-lingual stage actor with the esteemed Motley Theatre Company, earning him widespread recognition and acclaim from critics and theater enthusiasts alike.
As a lead actor, Ankur has had the privilege of performing in numerous Motley plays, showcasing his exceptional talent and versatility. His foray into film began in 2001 with the groundbreaking Indian film Mango Souffle, followed by a notable role as "Maman" in the Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire in 2008. His outstanding performance in the latter earned him a SAG award in 2009 for Best Ensemble Cast, as well as widespread critical acclaim and audience admiration.
Ankur's remarkable body of work continued with his role in Nirbhaya, a powerful play that explores the harrowing true story of a gang rape that took place on a bus in New Delhi on December 16, 2012. The play went on to win numerous awards, including a Fringe First Award, an Amnesty Award, and a Herald's Angel Award, and was performed in numerous countries around the world, solidifying its position as one of the most important works in Human Rights Theatre in 2013.
Throughout his illustrious career, Ankur has consistently demonstrated his commitment to creating meaningful and impactful work in films, web series, and on stage, earning him a reputation as a talented and dedicated artist.