Biography

Aks Mehraj – A Visionary in Theatre and Film

Birth Name: Sandeep Singh
Screen Name: Aks Mehraj
Origin: Mehraj, District Bathinda, Punjab

Aks Mehraj is a multi-talented artist known for his profound contributions to theatre, film, and media. His passion for storytelling, direction, and writing has made him a distinguished name in the entertainment industry. From penning thought-provoking scripts to directing award-winning productions, Aks Mehraj has left an indelible mark on the artistic landscape.

Theatre Career

Aks began his journey in theatre at the age of 20 with his debut play Ant Nahi Shuruaat, which garnered critical acclaim in Punjabi theatre. Since then, he has written 15 plays and directed over 30 productions, performing across India with more than 100 successful shows. His theatrical works have won numerous awards at state and national levels.

• Best Director Award (2024) at All India Theatre Festival, Barnala
• Best Scriptwriter Appreciation Award for Gum Hai... Gum Hai script
• Best Comedy Play Award (2019) for Oh Shit!!
• Best Play of the Year (2020) for Murderer

His plays have been staged in multiple languages, extending his influence beyond Punjabi theatre. Notably, his productions Pinjar (based on Amrita Pritam’s novel) and Dukh Darya have been highly praised for their depth and artistic vision.

Filmography

Aks Mehraj has made a significant impact in the film industry as a writer, lyricist, actor, and director. His versatility is evident in his diverse roles across feature films, short films, and web series.

• Actor in Jaggi (IFFL, USA award-winning film on MUBI), Chamkila (Netflix, 2024), Kohrra S-2 (Netflix, 2025), Zindagi Zindabaad (2024), Pinds of Punjab (2020), Surrender (2022), Gedi Route (2022), The Last Tree (award-winning), Rajjo (PTC Box Office, 2019), Student War (2019) and Punjab Online (2025)
• Assistant/Associate Director for Lukan Michi (2019), Zindagi Zindabaad (2024), Punjab Online, and Student War (2019)
• Chief Assistant Director for Salgirah (2019) and Zero164 (2020)
• Lyricist/Dialogue Writer for Tera Desh (2012-13), Stupid-7 (2013), Halla-Ho (2017), Allarh Vares (2024) and Gurmukh (2025), Pinds of Punjab (2020),
• Director (Short Film) for Pand (2017), Tabbar (2018)

Media Contributions

Beyond theatre and film, Aks has played an instrumental role in media and journalism. His editorial expertise and writing skills have contributed to numerous publications, including:

• Editor of Sanjhi Kalam (Online Magazine)
• Co-Editor of Pollyway (Film Industry Magazine, 2015-16)
• Media Writer for Music Times, Lifestyle Today, Punjabi Tribune, and Punjabi Jagran
• Contributor to Fivewood Media (2019-20)

Academic, Awards and Competitive Achievements

Aks Mehraj has earned recognition for his artistic excellence in prestigious competitions:

• Gold Medalist (One-Act Play – Director) at Punjabi University, Patiala (2011, 2013) and MRSUPTU, Bathinda (2019, 2022, 2024, 2025)
• Best Play in Female Cast at Maha Shakti Kala Mandir, Barnala (2015, 2016, 2018)
• Lifetime Contribution Award (2019) for theatre activities

Training & Workshops

Aks has been actively involved in mentoring and training young artists. He has conducted theatre workshops and summer camps at:

• Delhi Public School, Bathinda
• Natrang, Abohar

Theatre Judhment

·         Maha Shakti Kala Mandir, Barnala (2017)

·         CT University Ludhiana (2025)

Legacy and Vision

As a writer, director, lyricist, and performer, Aks Mehraj continues to push the boundaries of storytelling. His dedication to the arts and his ability to blend contemporary issues with traditional narratives make him a true visionary. Whether through theatre, film, or media, he remains committed to fostering creativity and inspiring future generations of artists.