Yashpal Sharma grew up in Hisar, Haryana, where his early interest in acting was nurtured through local Ramlila performances. He later graduated from the National School of Drama (NSD), New Delhi, in 1994, and began his career with the NSD Repertory Company before moving to Mumbai in 1997. His first major recognition came with Hazaar Chaurasi Ki Maa (1998), but his breakthrough role was in the Academy Award-nominated film Lagaan (2001), where he played Lakha.
Since then, Sharma has built a diverse career across films, television, and theatre. He is best known for his roles in Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi (2003), Gangaajal (2003), Ab Tak Chhappan (2004), Apaharan (2005), Singh Is Kinng (2008), Aarakshan (2011), and Rowdy Rathore (2012). On television, he has appeared in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah as Don Rana and in Mera Naam Karegi Roshan. He continues to perform in live plays and remains a respected figure in Indian theatre.