Karthik Kumar is a noted theatre and Kollywood actor. He is also known as Evam Karthik for his theatre background. Karthik quit his job to start his own venture Evam Entertainment (with partner Sunil Vishnu) which is India’s only corporate that is into performing arts, arts management and education, and behavioural training. Among the exceptional plays of Evam is The 39 Steps, which has won two national awards after being nominated in eight categories. Another play Ali J received accolades at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2013.


The book I am reading now: Eichmann before Jerusalem

My favourite theatre production: Othello in Black & White

The biggest influence in my life: Several people, including my parents and mentors

If I were not an actor: I would have been a social activist 

The thing that drove me closer to theatre: The healing power of taking a story to an audience 

My passion other than acting: Travelling 

My favourite quote: ‘You are your dream’ 

I am at present busy with: A new play, new films, a new standup album

Happiness to me means: A moment of quietness 

My most prized possession: My home space

I would like people to remember me as: Being memorable and as someone who cared

As told to Shivani Gaurav Chaturvedi