Panchayat is one of the most talked-about shows on OTT today. While viewers continue to praise Jitendra Kumar's performance as Sachiv Ji, the world of Phulera would not be the same without its lovable Pradhanpati, Brij Bhushan Dubey, played by veteran actor Raghubir Yadav. Widely regarded as one of the finest performers in Indian cinema, Yadav is not only an accomplished actor but also a talented music composer. Recently, the actor looked back at the difficult yet formative years that shaped his journey, revealing how surviving on just Rs 2.5 a day and failing in science eventually led him to acting.Raghubir Yadav never saw it as a struggleIn a recent conversation with ABP Live, he opened up about his early years in theatre and cinema. While many would describe those years as a struggle, the actor said he never looked at them that way.According to Yadav, acting has never been easy, but it has always been enjoyable. He explained that he worked hard, learned constantly and found happiness in the process rather than focusing on the hardships.The veteran actor also spoke about how people often romanticise the idea of struggle in artistic professions. He said every art form demands dedication, practice and patience. Whether it is acting, music or dance, an artiste has to keep learning throughout life. Even today, he believes there is still much more for him to learn.You Might Also Like:How failing in science changed his lifeYadav also revealed that a failed science exam became the turning point of his life.He shared that he had been pushed towards science because it was considered a safer career path. However, he realised early on that he was unlikely to pass his examinations. Knowing the outcome in advance, he decided to leave home with a friend rather than wait for the results.That decision eventually brought him to Lalitpur, where a theatre company run by actor Annu Kapoor's father, Madanlal Kapoor, was performing. It was there that his journey into the world of theatre began.Looking back, Yadav said, "Even today, I consider failing in science one of the greatest blessings of my life. Had I not failed, I might never have become an actor." He explained that had he passed, he might never have entered acting and discovered his true calling.You Might Also Like:Surviving on Rs 2.5 a dayLife in theatre was far from glamorous.Raghubir Yadav recalled that he was supposed to earn Rs 2.5 a day while working with the theatre company. "I was supposed to earn Rs 2.5 a day, but sometimes I received even less. We would buy flour and tomatoes, make rotis and chutney and survive."To survive, he and his fellow artistes would pool their money, buy flour and tomatoes, and prepare simple meals of roti and chutney. There were times when their situation became even more difficult. The actor remembered occasions when their food would be stolen, leaving them with nothing to eat.Despite the hardships, the actor does not remember those years with bitterness. Instead, he sees them as some of the most important years of his life.The years that shaped an actorAccording to Raghubir Yadav, those early experiences helped him become the artiste he is today.During his time in theatre, he learned Urdu, improved his pronunciation and developed a deeper understanding of music and performance. The challenges he faced taught him discipline and helped him build the skills that would later define his career.He also recalled writing a letter to his father after leaving home, assuring him that he would never bring disgrace to the family. Although he briefly returned home after six months, a comment from a relative changed everything once again.The actor remembered feeling embarrassed when a relative remarked that they had expected to see him only on a cinema screen. The comment stayed with him so deeply that he left home again that very night.After that, Yadav remained away from his village for nearly 20 years.Today, the actor is celebrated for memorable performances in projects such as Panchayat, Newton and Sui Dhaaga. His journey from surviving on Rs 2.5 a day to becoming one of India's most respected actors stands as a reminder that setbacks can sometimes open doors to unexpected opportunities.