We had the good fortune of connecting with Harsh Kumar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Harsh, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Ever since I was a child in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India; storytelling pulled me in like gravity. I remember watching local plays with wide eyes, not just enjoying them—but feeling them. When I first stepped on stage for Deepdaan of Panna Dhay (local theatre act), playing Chandan, I wasn’t just acting—I was becoming. That single performance changed everything. It caught the eye of the Supreme Editor of Dainik Jagran (Newspaper company in India) who gave me my first major opportunity to host his one of the biggest live events that was going to happen in Gorakhpur. I didn’t even know then that a spark had just turned into a flame.

I chose a creative career not because it was easy or conventional—it wasn’t. I chose it because I couldn’t imagine living a life without expressing emotions, lending my voice to stories, and making characters come alive. Whether I’m voicing a mischievous cartoon like Bunty Batra from Chikoo aur Bunty or something dark like Rangda from Rangda Ka Mayajaal (a Chhota Bheem franchise film), there’s magic in becoming someone else while still being myself.

This path has connected me with millions without ever being seen, just heard. That kind of silent influence—of being a voice behind a smile or a gasp—is powerful. Art gives me purpose. It gives me joy. And more than anything, it reminds me that our voices, quite literally, can change the world.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is all about transformation—through voice, emotion, and energy. Whether it’s the playful chaos of a cartoon, the gravitas of a villain, or the calm guidance of an IVR voice, I bring characters and moments to life through sound. I lend my voice to the unseen—and yet, through that, I connect deeply with audiences.

I’ve dubbed and officially voiced beloved characters like Bunty Batra from Chikoo Aur Bunty, Rangda in Rangda Ka Mayajaal, and Baby Opossum 10 in The Wild Robot. But my voice isn’t limited to animation—I’ve been the trusted voice behind IVR systems, Indian railway announcements, and even the “Power On” and “Power Off” cues you hear in Bluetooth earphones and speakers.

In the commercial space, I’ve lent my voice to major brands like Blinkit, Zomato, Swiggy, Nihar Shanti Amla, Vahataj, and many others. Each project, whether humorous, emotional, or informative, has helped me fine-tune the art of storytelling in seconds.

I’m also a mimicry artist, able to recreate the voices of Bo-chan (Shin-chan), Shinzo (Ninja Hattori), Dholu-Bholu and Jaggu Bandar (Chhota Bheem), Nevy (Theri – Vijay Thalapathy’s South Indian Movie) and iconic personalities like Kangana Ranaut, Farah Khan, and Lata Mangeshkar. This versatility allows me to step into countless roles with authenticity.

What sets me apart is the emotional range and flexibility I bring to every project. From a small-town stage in Gorakhpur to the national soundscape of ads, animation, and entertainment, my journey hasn’t been easy. I had no industry background or shortcuts. I built my path through passion, practice, and persistence.

The greatest lesson I’ve learned is that your voice can be your identity—even if your face isn’t always visible. I want the world to know that behind many sounds they hear—be it a cartoon, a jingle, or a train station announcement—there’s an artist who once dared to dream with nothing but a voice. And I’m proud to be that artist.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Gorakhpur for a week, I’d make sure they experienced not just the places, but the soul of the city. Gorakhpur has this beautiful balance of spiritual energy, local flavors, and cultural pride—and I’d love for them to feel all of it.

Day 1: We’d start with a peaceful morning at the Gorakhnath Temple, soaking in the spiritual vibes and history. It’s not just a temple—it’s a heartbeat of the city. In the evening, we’d grab some authentic local chaat from Golghar and wrap it up with a boat ride at Ramgarh Tal Lake, watching the sunset paint the sky.

Day 2: Time to explore history! We’d visit the Geeta Press—a legendary publisher of Hindu religious books with a deep cultural legacy. Then lunch at 10 Park Street or The Yellow Chilli for a modern food experience. Evening? A walk in V Park with street food like momos and kulhad chai.

Day 3: We’d go slightly offbeat—visit Kushinagar, about an hour away, known for its Buddhist sites and peaceful monasteries. It’s a gem for history and spiritual travelers. Dinner back in Gorakhpur with local thali at Baati Chokha—because no visit is complete without tasting traditional eastern UP cuisine.

Day 4: We’d do a “Harsh-style” film & voiceover day. I’d take them behind-the-scenes where I work, show them how voice acting is done, and maybe do a little demo session of mimicry and cartoon voices. It’s always fun and people love it!

Day 5: A trip to Vinod Van, a beautiful green forest area on the outskirts—great for nature walks and picnic vibes. On the way back, some shopping at City Mall or Buddha Bazaar. And then some relaxed rooftop dinner at Café Attitude or The Den.

Day 6: Art and performance day—we’d try to catch a local theater or music event if one’s happening. If not, I’d organize a small karaoke or open mic with friends. We’d sing, mimic, laugh, and just enjoy raw talent and fun.

Day 7: We’d keep it chill—breakfast at a local favorite like Bake ‘n’ Bite, then some last-minute street shopping. Before they leave, we’d visit my favorite spot near Ramgarh Tal again, just to reflect and soak it all in. A calm end to a beautiful week.

Gorakhpur may not be a metro city, but its heart beats loudly in its people, flavors, stories, and streets. That’s what I’d want my best friend to take home with them—memories that feel real, deep, and joyful.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely. While I’ve worked hard to shape my career, I deeply believe no journey is ever walked alone. I want to dedicate my shoutout to a few pillars in my life who made this possible.

First, my parents—Rajesh Kumar and Sangita Saroj—who stood by me unconditionally, even when the path I chose was unconventional and uncertain. Their belief in my talent and resilience gave me the courage to dream louder.

Second, I owe immense gratitude to the Supreme Editor of Dainik Jagran, whose belief in my potential during my early theater days changed everything. He saw a spark in a small-town boy performing as Chandan in Deepdaan of Panna Dhay and gave me my first major platform to host a large-scale event—this single opportunity became the ignition point for all that followed.

Also, a special shoutout to Ravi Kishan Ji (renowned actor and Member of Parliament from Gorakhpur) and Kalpana Patowary Ji (celebrated folk singer), whose support and encouragement during the Gorakhpur Mahotsav elevated my confidence as both a performer and a host. Their words and presence left a lasting impression.

Lastly, I’m grateful for every director, client, and collaborator who trusted my voice and my craft—from the creators of Chikoo Aur Bunty to those who gave me the chance to bring characters like Rangda, Bunty Batra, and Baby Opossum to life.

Behind every voice I give to a character, there’s a chorus of people who once gave voice to my dreams. This shoutout is for them.

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Image Credits
Harsh Kumar

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