https://indianmasterminds.com

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT

From Stage Fear to Theatrical Triumph: The Inspiring Journey of Santosh Kumar Gupta

Santosh Kumar Gupta, an Income Tax officer and national-level theatre director, seamlessly balances his high-pressure career with his love for drama, winning multiple national awards and redefining artistic expression in the Income Tax Department.
Indian Masterminds Stories

From Stage Fear to Theatrical Triumph: The Inspiring Journey of Santosh Kumar Gupta

Years ago, the thought of standing on a stage, let alone directing a play, would have sent shivers down Santosh Kumar Gupta’s spine. A man who once feared the spotlight is now an accomplished theatre director and actor, leading a team that has bagged prestigious national-level awards. Today, he balances his demanding career as an Income Tax Officer in the Investigation Wing of Delhi with his passion for theatre, proving that determination can overcome even the most deep-seated fears. He was also recently awarded by the Finance Minister for his contribution in drama and theatre.

A NERVOUS BEGINNING

Gupta’s journey into theatre was not conventional. “I never imagined myself on stage. Speaking in front of an audience felt impossible,” he told Indian Masterminds. However, fate had different plans. While working as an Inspector in the Income Tax Department, he was drawn into a theatrical production by colleagues. The initial experience was nerve-wracking, but with every performance, he gained confidence.

His breakthrough came when he participated in a play performed by the Income Tax Delhi team. Under his direction, the play clinched the prestigious Best Play (Gold Medal) at the National Level, earning several individual medals and accolades. This remarkable achievement cemented his place in the world of theatre. He has acted, directed, and produced plays like ‘Court Marshal,’ ‘Gagan Damama Bajyo,’ ‘Taj Mahal Ka Tender,’ and ‘Jine Lahore Ni Vekhya’ with the Income Tax Department and won awards in various competitions organized by the IT department and CBDT.

Santosh Kumar Gupta, an Income Tax Officer with a passion for drama, started his artistic journey alongside his career as an income tax officer. However, theatre is not his only forte. He is also a national-level chess player and represented Kanpur University six times, even serving as the captain of the team. Additionally, he is a certified mountaineer who has completed a basic course in mountaineering from ABVIMAS, Manali. His diverse skills highlight his dedication to continuous learning and personal growth.

BALANCING TAXATION AND THEATRE

Juggling a high-pressure job with a passion for the performing arts is no small feat. Gupta’s work in the Investigation Wing demands analytical skills, discretion, and immense focus. Despite this, he dedicates time to theatre, believing that his artistic pursuits enrich his professional life. “Theatre teaches empathy, patience, and observation—all qualities that help me in my job as an investigator,” he says.

His department has been incredibly supportive, recognizing the value of cultural engagement. Through theatre, Gupta and his team have managed to not only entertain but also shed light on social issues, making their performances both impactful and thought-provoking.

A VISION FOR ASHOKA

While he has directed and acted in numerous plays, one project remains particularly close to his heart—a play on Emperor Ashoka. Gupta is deeply intrigued by the lesser-explored aspects of Ashoka’s life, particularly the immense courage it took for him to choose non-violence, even when he knew that his dynasty might not survive this path. “Ashoka’s journey is not just one of redemption and wisdom, but also of extraordinary bravery. To willingly embrace peace, despite knowing its potential consequences, is a testament to his strength as a ruler,” Gupta shares enthusiastically. Through this play, he aims to present a nuanced portrayal of Ashoka—not just as a transformed emperor but as a visionary leader who prioritized moral conviction over political gain. His vision is to create a production that resonates with modern audiences, inspiring them to reflect on the weight of their own choices and the true meaning of courage.

A FUTURE FULL OF POSSIBILITIES

Despite his impressive achievements, Gupta sees himself as a perpetual learner. He aims to refine his craft further, taking on more challenging roles and productions. His advice to aspiring artists is simple yet profound: “Do not let fear hold you back. Every great performer was once a beginner. Trust the process, and you’ll find your voice.”

His dedication and talent have not only earned him personal accolades but have also brought glory to the Income Tax Department. For the first time in the history of cultural events of the department, a drama named “Court Martial” won four consecutive competitions under his direction. This included three Best Drama awards and one Second Runner-up position. Achieving victory in a single drama competition is remarkable, but winning four consecutive competitions is a testament to unparalleled dedication, talent, and teamwork. This accomplishment reflects not only the hard work of the performers but also the support and enthusiasm of the team members. Their continued success is a source of immense pride and inspiration, showcasing the power of creative collaboration.

From a man who once feared speaking in public to an award-winning director and actor, Santosh Kumar Gupta’s story is one of resilience, passion, and relentless pursuit of excellence. As he continues his journey, both in his professional career and in theatre, his story stands as an inspiration to all who dare to dream beyond their fears.


Indian Masterminds Stories
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Related Stories
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
NEWS
Nitish Kumar
Bihar: CM Nitish Kumar Vows to Create 1 Crore Jobs for Bihar Youth in Next 5 Years, Highlights Major Development Milestones
Vishnu Deo Sai CM
Chhattisgarh Government Approves Rs 1,390 Crore for Four New Medical Colleges and Healthcare Projects
Pushkar Singh Dhami CM
Uttarakhand Government Launches Free Pre-Recruitment Training for Agniveer Aspirants Across All Districts
Airports Authority of India AAI
PESB Finds Candidates Unsatisfactory for AAI Member (Operations) Post, Calls for New Selection Process
justice-photo
Next CJI of India: Find Out Who’s Set to Become the New Chief Justice – Full Story Inside
IPS Ratan Lal Dangi
Who Is IPS Ratan Lal Dangi? Chhattisgarh Police Officer Accused of Harassment by SI’s Wife; IG Anand Chhabra Assigned Probe - Full Story
Yogi Adityanath Ayodhya visit in Diwali
UP: CM Yogi Adityanath Orders Fire Stations Every 100 Km on Expressways, Approves 1,020 New Posts in Fire Services
SDM Chhotu Lal Sharma
Who Is SDM Chhotu Lal Sharma? The 2015-Batch RAS Officer Caught in Yet Another Scandal After Slapping Petrol Pump Employee
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Videos
WhatsApp Image 2025-10-19 at 12.23
UPSC Journey Should Be Enjoyable, Not Cumbersome
WhatsApp Image 2025-10-16 at 15.16
The Many Facets of Former IRS Officer and Author, Giselle Mehta | Video Interview
IDES Saquib Alam
Beyond IAS and IPS: The Inspiring Work of an IDES officer | Video Interview 
ADVERTISEMENT
UPSC Stories
IAS Rupal Rana UPSC
How Rupal Rana Cracked UPSC CSE 2023 with AIR 26 After Four Attempts
UPSC Topper Rupal Rana secured AIR 26 in 2023 after four attempts. Learn her preparation strategy, booklist,...
Ankita Parashar RAS 2023
4 Attempts, 1 Dream, 0 Excuses: Meet RAS Topper Ankita Parashar, Who Fulfilled a Daughter’s Promise & Secured Rank 2 | Exclusive Interview
Ankita Parashar, a teacher-turned-officer from Pushkar, fulfilled her late father’s dream by securing...
Kushal Chaudhary RAS
From Lab Assistant’s Grit to Rajasthan Topper: How Kushal Chaudhary Topped RAS 2023 with Self-Study | Preparation, Strategy & Interview
Kushal Chaudhary, a farmer’s son and lab assistant from Ajmer, topped RAS 2023 through self-study, overcoming...
Social Media
IFS Parveen Kaswan
Heartbreak by the River: 15-Day-Old Elephant Calf Rejected by Mother, Rescued by IFS Parveen Kaswan and His Team
Jaldapra, West Bengal: In a moving incident that tugs at the heart, a 15-day-old elephant calf was rescued...
Ashwini Bhide IAS and Anand Mahindra
Who Is IAS Ashwini Bhide, Hailed as a Role Model for Mumbai Metro Transformation by Anand Mahindra?
From heritage to high-tech: Bhide’s leadership in Metro Line 3 earns public praise and admiration
World Rhino Day India
On World Rhino Day, IFS Officer Parveen Kaswan Shares Rare Insights - India Now Hosts 80% of the World’s One-Horned Rhinos
September 22 Marks Global Call for Rhino Conservation; India Holds 80% of World’s Greater One-Horned...
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Latest
Nitish Kumar
Bihar: CM Nitish Kumar Vows to Create 1 Crore Jobs for Bihar Youth in Next 5 Years, Highlights Major Development Milestones
Vishnu Deo Sai CM
Chhattisgarh Government Approves Rs 1,390 Crore for Four New Medical Colleges and Healthcare Projects
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Videos
WhatsApp Image 2025-10-19 at 12.23
WhatsApp Image 2025-10-16 at 15.16
IDES Saquib Alam
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT