our founders
Viren Basooya
Founder & Director
Viren Basoya is an Indian actor and theatre director with 19 years of experience in the performing arts. He co-founded the Aawara Theatre Group,acting and theatre group in Andheri, contributing to both stage and screen. He began his theatre journey with Arvind Gaur Sir (Asmita Theatre Group) in 2006.
Film Career : Basooya has appeared in several notable films, including:
– Jannat 2
– Listen Amaya
– Qarib Qarib Single
– Stree
– Gandhi: The Silent Gun
– Ghoul
– City Of Dreams ( S-3)
Awards – Best Actor Award for Gandhi ( The Silent Gun)
Theater Contributions
As a director, Basoya has helmed several plays, including works presented by Mahesh Bhatt, such as”7:40 Ki Ladies Special” & “Baat Niklegi Toh”, Vijay Tendulkar’s “Panchhi Aise Aate Hain” & “Kauon Ki Pathshala”, Rajesh Kumar’s “Gaay”, Daya Prakash Sinha’s “Apne Apne Daon”, Yogesh Tripathi’s “Mujhe Amrita Chahiye”, Mohan Rakesh’s “Bahut Bada Sawal”, Manto’s “Badshahat Ka Khatma” , Harishankar Parsai’s “Nitthalle Ki Diary”, Ashok Lal’s “Ek Mamooli Aadmi”, Bhartendu Harischndra’s “Andher Nagri Chaupat Raja” etc.
He co-wrote and directed the play “7:40 Ki Ladies Special,” based on the real-life story of transgender activist Pooja Sharma Rekha, which was presented by Mr. Mahesh Bhatt.
Podcasting and Storytelling
Basoya also connects with audiences through his Spotify podcast, where he shares stories, poetry, and travel experiences. As the visionary behind an acting and theatre group, he continues to champion powerful stories and voices in Indian theatre.
Sapna Basoya
Founder & Creative Director
Sapna Basoya is an accomplished Indian actress and theatre artist with a career spanning several decades. She began her journey in the performing arts at the age of eight and is also a trained classical Kathak dancer.
Worked with renowned Theatre Directors of India like:-
Arvind Gaur, Mustak Kak, Sanjay Upadhaye, Rajendra Nath, Prasanna, Chetan Datar, Chitranjan Tripathi, M.K Raina, Ranjit Kapoor, B. Jayshree, Raj Bisaria, Tripurari Sharma, Suresh Sharma, Mohit Takalkar, Neelam Mansingh Choudhary, Ovlyakuli Khodjakuli ( Russian Director), Mohan Maharishi, Bhanu Bharti etc.
In addition to her acting career, Sapna co-founded the Aawara Theatre Group, contributing significantly to the theatre community. She has collaborated with esteemed organizations such as the National School of Drama Repertory Company, Asmita Theatre Group & Shri Ram Centre, Repertory.
As the co-founder of Aawara Theatre Group, Sapna has played a crucial role in developing an inclusive and dynamic Acting And Theatre Group In Andheri, where aspiring actors and performers receive expert guidance and mentorship.
Film Career:-
Her film appearances include Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, Qarib Qarib Singlle, Janhit Mein Jaari, Chausar, and Laghushanka.
In 2023, she co-wrote 7:40 Ki Ladies Special, a play based on the real-life journey of transgender activist Pooja Sharma, presented by Mahesh Bhatt.
Arun Khatana
Founder & Director of Delhi's Branch
Arun Khatana is the Founder and Director of the Delhi Branch of Aawara Theatre Group. Fondly known as a dedicated theatre educator, Arun is a Certified Theatre in Education Trainer from the National School of Drama (T.I.E. Co.). Since 2008, he has been actively associated with NSD, conducting a wide range of workshops focusing on theatre skills and personality development for both teachers and children through organizations like NSD, Sahitya Kala Parishad, and more.
He has directed and executed numerous productions and educational workshops in reputed institutions like Shri Ram School, Malwa School, Bal Bharti School, Gurukul, and colleges such as Jesus & Mary College and Lady Irwin College. Arun firmly believes in the transformative role of teachers and works to empower them through theatre-based training.
Arun has collaborated with Delhi University, working extensively with students and faculty to develop a deep understanding of drama techniques. He also partners with social organizations like Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Katkatha, and the Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation.
Currently, Arun is engaged in educational theatre initiatives at Raghubir Singh Junior Modern School, while staying connected with the Acting And Theatre Group In Andheri. His passions include reading, cooking, and trekking.