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Indian Express
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Ayushmann Khurrana on defying Bollywood hero stereotypes, managing stress, and his take on sustainability: ‘Growing up in a middle-class household…'
From anchoring on radio and reality TV to becoming one of India's most unconventional leading actors, Ayushmann Khurrana has redefined what it means to be a Bollywood star. With hits like Vicky Donor, Article 15, Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, Andhadhun, Badhaai Do, and more, the National Award-winning actor, singer, and poet has consistently chosen scripts that challenge the norm, be it tackling taboos around masculinity, caste, sexuality, or social stigma. 'I'm constantly on the lookout for characters who are vulnerable, real, and flawed, who rise up to do something extraordinary,' said Khurrana. In an exclusive interview with the ahead of World Environment Day 2025, Khurrana opens up about the instincts that drive his storytelling, the values shaped by his middle-class upbringing, and how sustainable living, both on and off screen, guides his everyday choices. Edited excerpts below: A post shared by Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) Ayushmann Khurrana: Evolution. Every phase has shaped me. It taught me to take risks – half of my most successful films were with debutant directors. I love what I do, and I'm grateful for the opportunities. Each new project brings fresh energy. I seek out characters who are flawed, vulnerable, and yet manage to do something meaningful. My choices might not fit the conventional image of a Bollywood star, but they resonate with the audience. My journey has been that of a disruptor A post shared by Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) Ayushmann Khurrana: It's definitely a mix; instinct leads the way. I am drawn to scripts that unsettle me and push me out of my comfort zone. My philosophy is simple: I want to tell stories that matter, that reflect society's blind spots, and start relevant conversations. So yes, instinct brings me to the door, but my beliefs ensure I walk through it every time. Q3. Has mindful living shaped how you approach food, from indulgence to something more intentional? Ayushmann Khurrana: Absolutely. I've shifted from eating just for taste to eating for well-being. I still relish my sweet dishes, like a scoop of kulfi, but I make room for those treats rather than having them by default. Most meals now centre around whole grains, fresh seasonal produce, and simple home-cooked recipes. Mindful eating for me means tasting each bite, checking in with my body's needs, and choosing ingredients that fuel both body and soul. Q4. Sustainability is becoming central to how we live. Have you made any conscious changes – at home, in your wardrobe, or daily habits – that reflect this shift? Ayushmann Khurrana: Definitely. A lot of these values were instilled in me early on. Growing up in a middle-class household taught me to respect resources: never waste food, water, or electricity. Those lessons became a mindset, a way of life, and helped in understanding the impact of our actions on the planet. Today, I make small but consistent efforts – waste segregation, conserving water, switching off lights and devices not in use. These may seem minor, but collectively, they form the foundation of a healthier planet. I believe that when we live with intention and honour the resources around us, we nurture it for generations to come. Q5. If you could inspire your audience to adopt one conscious habit, what would it be, and why? Ayushmann Khurrana: Sustainability is not just a buzzword for me. I believe in making mindful choices that benefit the environment and, by extension, elevate the quality of our daily lives. I'd say start your day with a 10-minute digital detox. No phones, no screens—just reconnect with yourself. Also, avoid single-use items, whether it's tissues, paper plates, or disposable makeup wipes. These small changes are easy to adopt and can have a big impact on the planet. Q. With such a packed schedule, what helps you manage stress? Are there rituals that keep you mentally grounded? Ayushmann Khurrana: There are a few non-negotiables for me: I start the day with yoga and meditation, and then plug into music or poetry. I barely scroll on my phone as a 'break' – that is just more noise. Instead, I walk barefoot on the grass, do simple stretches, or sometimes sit quietly with a glass of Signature Packaged Drinking Water and watch the sunset. Those tiny rituals reset my headspace. Q. What's something you believe today that the younger you would've never expected but would be proud of? Ayushmann Khurrana: I have been silently manifesting the life and career I have today. I think the younger me dreamt big, even if he didn't know how it would all unfold. What he didn't expect was the courage I'd find to take risks and embrace failure. As an actor, I consciously chose to do films not set in formulas. Every film I said yes to came from a place of conviction, both from the makers and me. The subjects were not only promising but also had the potential to be thought-provoking around important societal issues that are usually not addressed. That these stories resonated with audiences is something my younger self would be very proud of. Cherry Gupta is an Assistant Manager - Content at The Indian Express. She is responsible for crafting compelling narratives, uncovering the latest news and developments, and driving engaging content based on data and trends to boost website traffic and audience engagement. One can connect with her on LinkedIn or by mail at ... Read More
News18
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
John Abraham On Why He Won't Work On OTT: 'Don't See Sense...'
Last Updated: John Abraham's The Diplomat is successful on OTT, but he prefers the big screen due to OTT's extensive setup and overheads. John Abraham's The Diplomat has found a new wave of success ever since it released on OTT. The digital debut has helped it reach an even broader audience. With OTT platforms becoming a preferred choice for both audiences and A-list actors alike, it's clear the medium is booming. That said, John seems content staying on the big screen for now, with no interest in diving into the world of web series. Explaining the reason behind it, John Abraham tells Hindustan Times, 'To do OTT, you need a very big office setup. You need a lot of people working towards something, where you don't even own the IP of. You make a commission from the series and that goes into your overheads. Anybody who's doing OTT today, they'll tell you absolutely the same thing. So, I don't see sense in breaking sweat on doing these series." That said, he's open to the idea,badmitting that if a compelling series comes his way and sparks his interest as a producer, he wouldn't hesitate to get on board. 'I would love to because I want to tell that story, not because I want to make a business model out of it. So, that's one reason why I'm not doing this as a producer yet." When asked if he would ever act in OTT, the actor responds, 'Never say never, but at this point of time, I do not want to come on OTT as an actor for a series or an original film. I want to come on the big screen. In my head, I believe I was made for the big screen. I have a lot of respect for OTT channels because most of the content, at least internationally, and so much of the Indian content like Paatal Lok is outstanding. I have so much of respect for the space, but I don't see myself yet in it." On the work front, John Abraham last appeared in The Diplomat, alongside a talented cast which includes Sharib Hashmi, Sadia Khateeb and more. The actor wears many hats — he's the owner of the ISL football team NorthEast United, a film producer behind projects like Vicky Donor and Madras Cafe, and a passionate biker, which is a whole world of its own. First Published: May 26, 2025, 11:41 IST
NDTV
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Rajkummar Rao To Star In Shoojit Sircar's Two-Hero Comedy? Details Inside
New Delhi: Seems like Shoojit Sircar, who is credited with films like Piku, October, Sardar Udham, and Vicky Donor, is gearing up for a satirical comedy with Rajkummar Rao. Shoojit Sircar's last directorial was I Want To Talk with Abhishek Bachchan in the lead. The film did not garner big numbers at the box office, however, Abhishek's performance and the poignant storyline were much appreciated. Pinkvilla has now exclusively learnt that Shoojit Sircar has locked the script for his next project which will be a two-hero comedy with Rajkummar Rao in the lead. The shooting of the same is going to begin in the second half of 2025, and the director is currently on the lookout for a second male lead. The source told Pinkvilla, "The brief is simple - a credible actor, with some comic timing. Shoojit also wants to work with secure people, who don't interfere much in the process of filmmaking. Two-hero films are tricky, and it's crucial to work with the right energies. Shoojit has found Raj, who aligns with his sensibilities and the hunt for parallel lead is underway." The official date will be announced once the second male lead is also finalised. On the work front, Rajkummar Rao is currently gearing up for the release of Bhool Chuk Maaf where he will be seen alongside Wamiqa Gabbi. The Stree actor is also busy shooting for two projects for his home production KAMPA Films which will be OTT releases on Netflix. Rajkummar's wife, actress Patralekhaa is also a partner in this home production venture.
Pink Villa
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
EXCLUSIVE: Rajkummar Rao teams up with Shoojit Sircar for a two-hero comedy; Hunt for co-star in progress
Over the years, Shoojit Sircar has directed films like Vicky Donor, Madras Café, Piku, October, and Sardar Udham among others. The filmmaker has created his own niche in the audiences, and has shifted from one genre to the other at regular intervals. His last directorial with Abhishek Bachchan, I Want To Talk, was a box office failure and ever since, there have been chatters in the industry on what next for Shoojit Sircar. And Pinkvilla has exclusively learnt that Shoojit Sircar has locked the script of his next and is all set to start shooting from the second half of 2025. According to sources close to the development, Shoojit Sircar's next is a two-hero comedy film, and the maker has locked Rajkummar Rao to play one of the two leads. 'Rajkummar Rao and Shoojit Sircar have been jamming about a probable collaboration for a while now, and the energies have finally aligned on this yet untitled satirical comedy. Rajkummar has given a go ahead to the script, with the intent of starting the shoot towards the end of 2025,' revealed a source close to the development. Shoojit is now looking to cast a parallel lead alongside Rajkummar Rao. 'The brief is simple – a credible actor, with some comic timing. Shoojit also wants to work with secure people, who don't interfere much in the process of filmmaking. Two-hero films are tricky, and it's crucial to work with right energies. Shoojit has found Raj, who aligns with his sensibilities and the hunt for parallel lead is underway,' the source added. The exact shoot dates will be locked once the parallel lead is locked. Meanwhile, Rajkummar Rao is presently gearing up for the release of the Dinesh Vijan produced Bhool Chuk Maaf. He is also shooting for two of his home productions, scheduled to premiere direct on Netflix. Stay tuned to Pinkvilla for more updates.
Pink Villa
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
5 films on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video that offer perfect inspiration for your date night beyond usual romance: Dil Bechara to Mere Brother Ki Dulhan
Bollywood serves as the perfect inspiration for everything one can think of. However, the unique date night ideas the film serves cannot be compared. From bonding over the terrace, late night coffee talks to taking boat rides and going to prom, it has a box full of ideas to impress your better half. We've curated a list of 5 films that give perfect inspiration for date nights that you should definitely not miss. 1. Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani Where to watch - Netflix, Amazon Prime Video The 2013 film Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, directed by Ayan Mukerji, starred Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Aditya Roy Kapur, and Kalki Koechlin in key roles. The iconic Udaipur boat ride scene is the perfect date night idea where the two will get a chance to talk about life and goals in a peaceful atmosphere. 2. Ae Dil Hai Mushkil Where to watch - Netflix, Amazon Prime Video Remember the cafe in the song Bulleya? Well, late night coffee is the perfect date night inspiration as shown in the film Ae Dil Hai Mushkil. Starring Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, the film is just unmissable with a perfect blend of music, drama, romance and comedy. 3. Dil Bechara Where to watch - JioHotstar What about taking your better half to prom? Dil Bechara serves as the perfect example to give you an idea of how one should organize a date uniquely. Starring Sushant Singh Rajput and Sanjana Sanghi, Manny takes Kizie to prom in the song Taare Ginn and one couldn't ask for a better date. The beautiful, romantic setting is not to be missed. 4. Vicky Donor Where to watch - Amazon Prime Video Starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Yami Gautam, Vicky Donor has attained a cult status. The light-hearted comedy revolves around the life of Vicky, a boy-next-door who donates sperm to earn money. Well, the film has a perfect date night inspiration - the terrace bonding. Vicky and Ashima bond on the terrace away from the world and he also sings Pani Da Rang for his lady love. It is perfect to build a strong connection. 5. Mere Brother Ki Dulhan Where to watch - Amazon Prime Video What better way to bond than exploring the city? In Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, starring Imran Khan and Katrina Kaif in lead roles, Kush takes Dimple to explore the city. They create some beautiful memories together giving perfect inspiration. One can plan something like this and create memories that will stay with them for a lifetime.
