Showing posts with label Kartik Aaryan interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kartik Aaryan interview. Show all posts
Even I have heard about the ‘Kartik Aaryan template’ being discussed at films marketing meetings-Kartik Aaryan
9:19 AM
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 29, 2025)
For Kartik Aaryan, 2025 will always remain one of his most special years, with big film announcements one after the other, and of course, his Best Actor wins: IIFA for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 and Filmfare for Chandu Champion, both 2024 releases. As we catch up with him, the confidence shines through, in both his choices and ambition:
Winning your first-ever Filmfare Best Actor award for Chandu Champion - for a new-generation star like you, did the film feel like an ‘experiment,’ and was the win a vindication of sorts?
Honestly, I didn’t look at Chandu Champion as an experiment at all. The moment I heard the story of (India’s first paralympic gold medallist) Murlikant Petkar ji, I was surprised and deeply moved. I felt this was a story of incredible resilience, courage, and self belief; one every Indian should know. I could totally relate to his story and considered myself truly blessed to get the opportunity to portray such an inspirational real-life hero on screen. I will always be indebted to Kabir (Khan, director) sir and Sajid (Nadiadwala, producer) sir for trusting me with this incredible story. Winning the Filmfare Best Actor award feels like a huge validation, not just for me but for the kind of cinema that celebrates real stories and the human spirit.
Is Chatori (your newest pup) a present you have given to yourself for your Chandu Champion win?
(Laughs) Yes, you can say that! Chatori is actually a gift from my mom, and she’s already become everyone’s favourite at home. Bas Katori thodi si insecure ho gayi hai! Abhi tak donon ki dosti nahin hui hai. But still, Katori is very protective of Chatori like a big sister. The house feels livelier with both of them around.
We celebrated Diwali recently, and one is reminded of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 last year, which pretty much set the benchmark for Diwali releases. Do big box office numbers feel like a responsibility, or add pressure?
The love the audience showered on Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 was overwhelming, it felt like a festival inside theatres. The film released alongside another massive franchise, and there was immense anticipation among the audience, trade, and media for both. Together, the two films did a combined business of over Rs. 800 crores worldwide (BB3 – Rs. 423.85 cr, Singham Returns – Rs. 389.64 cr). That year, Diwali genuinely felt like Diwali for the entire industry.
For me, these big box office numbers are very motivating, but more than pressure, I see it as a responsibility, to keep entertaining the audience and living up to their expectations. At the same time, I try not to let the numbers dictate my choices. For me, it’s always about the story and the connection it creates with the audience. If that works, everything else follows.
Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri is set for a New Year eve release. How was it reuniting with (actor) Ananya Panday?
The film has shaped up beautifully, it’s got that perfect mix of heart, fun, and festive energy. We had a blast shooting it, and that vibe translates on screen. Reuniting with Ananya was like picking up where we left off, she was a total live-wire on set. She’s going to surprise everyone. I’m sure the audience will enjoy our chemistry in this fun, refreshing rom-com as Ray-Rumi and all the masti the film brings.
Would you call rom-com ‘your’ genre, given your successful track record in them?
Rom-coms come to me quite naturally, maybe they’re just in my DNA (laughs). I guess the audience also enjoys seeing me in such roles, which makes it more special. But I never want to be confined to one genre. I love exploring different kinds of stories and characters. At the end of the day, I go by what truly connects with me, a story that moves me and one that will entertain the audience, no matter what the genre is.
One hears that you don’t limit yourself to just acting, you get involved in marketing too. There’s even a ‘Kartik Aaryan template’ now. Where did this streak come from?
I think I’m also a bit of a businessman at heart (smiles). For me, it’s equally important to market a film in the best possible way. Today, storytelling doesn’t end with the shoot, how you present it to the audience matters just as much. So I like being involved in all aspects of film making. Thankfully, my producers have been welcoming and yes, even I have heard about the ‘Kartik Aaryan template’ being discussed at films marketing meetings! Trust me, its really encouraging.
Relationships aren’t fairy tales, love takes effort-Kartik Aaryan
4:31 PM
Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; February 14, 2025)
He won over young fans with his perfectly delivered monologues in romcoms like Pyaar Ka Punchnama and Pati Patni Aur Woh, and then, Kartik Aaryan went on to become the charming face of tongue-twisting movie titles like Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety and the upcoming Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri (try saying that fast on a loop). The actor’s take on love, however, is anything but complicated. When it comes to matters of the heart, Rooh Baba is refreshingly real. Bombay Times exclusively caught up with one of B-Town’s most eligible bachelors on Valentine’s Day and quizzed him on love, modern dating, relationships, situationships and everything in between. Read on…
What do you think of Valentine’s Day? Do you believe in the concept of a soulmate?
I think Valentine’s Day is a sweet celebration of love, but honestly, if you truly love someone, every day should feel special. As for soulmates – yes, I’d like to believe there’s someone out there who just gets you. But I also think love is about effort and growing together, rather than waiting for the perfect person to show up. Relationships aren’t fairy tales, but they do have their own magic when two people make an effort.
How different are you as a person when single as opposed to when you are in a relationship?
When I’m single, my life is all about the hustle – shoots, promotions, scripts, gym and late-night binge-watching. But If I were in a relationship, my world would revolve around that one person. I’m always busy making that person feel special every moment. I become that person who texts khana khaya kya? a hundred times a day, plans surprise dates, and cancels night-outs with friends just to spend time with her. I still don’t know how to balance things out (laughs).
From Pyaar Ka Punchnama to Love Aaj Kal 2, Luka Chuppi to Satyaprem Ki Katha, and now a rather intense musical with Anurag Basu – does the choice of these films reflect your evolution as a lover, too? Are you more serious about finding love today?
Every film I’ve done has shown different shades of love – some fun, some intense, some heartbreaking. And just like my characters, I’ve evolved too. I think romance has always been my strong suit, and I’m grateful filmmakers see that, too. And honestly, my approach to relationships in real life helps me bring out the best on-screen, too. It’s all connected, and it always reflects. Audiences and fans only connect with us as performers when we are able to bring that authenticity to our characters. You will see an intense, never-seen-before side of me in Anurag Basu da’s musical love story and then you will see me playing a fun, yet, character with gravitas in Sameer Vidwans’ Tu Mera Main Teri Main Tera Tu Meri. 2025 is shaping up to be a romantic year for me.
How integral were Bollywood movies in shaping your perception of love? Growing up, were you a Shah Rukh Khan and Yash Chopra fan?
Bollywood definitely shaped my idea of romance. I grew up watching Shah Rukh Khan spreading his arms and making it look so effortless. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Mohabbatein, Dil To Pagal Hai, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, all those films made love feel larger than life and magical. And yes, I’m a huge SRK and Yash Chopra fan. Who isn’t?
We all go through heartbreak, and some of us, even unrequited love. How do you heal from a heartbreak?
I’m a diehard romantic, on-screen and off-screen. I don’t rush the process. I let myself feel everything, but I also make sure to channel my emotions into something productive, whether it’s work, fitness, or spending time with friends and family. I think the key is to surround yourself with love in different forms—whether it’s from your close ones, your passion, or even your pet. And some of the best love stories are born after a heartbreak.
What’s your love language, and what, according to you, is the true definition of love?
For me, love is about effort, consistency, honesty and showing up for the person you care about. It’s not just about grand gestures but also the little ones. My love language is a mix of quality time and acts of service. I believe in being present, and in making life easier and happier for the person I love.
What’s your take on the modern dating culture of situationships and no-strings-attached relationships?
I’m a diehard romantic. Love is pure, in-depth emotion, and I feel there is no place for practicality when you are in love. I understand that times are changing rapidly, and our dating culture is also evolving with it. People have different ways of expressing love, and that’s okay. Personally, I believe in something more meaningful and long-term rather than just fleeting connections.
What does a ‘green flag’ mean to you in a relationship?
For me, a real green flag is feeling secure, not just in yourself but also in your partner’s success and achievements. No one’s perfect, but what really matters is appreciating and supporting each other. At the end of the day, if you truly love someone, you should be their biggest cheerleader.
You often talk about your bond with your mother and sister. How has growing up around strong women shaped your perspective on love and relationships?
Everything I am today because of them. Watching my mother’s resilience and my sister’s strength has taught me what true love and respect mean. They’ve always been my biggest cheerleaders, and that has influenced the way I treat people, especially women. I believe love should be built on mutual respect, support, and understanding – just like the bond I share with them.
We are poles apart & yet, each other’s safe space, say Kartik Aaryan and sister Kritika Tiwari
8:35 AM
A day before Raksha Bandhan, Kartik Aaryan and his younger sister, Dr Kritika Tiwari, talk about their beautiful bond that goes beyond the usual sibling nok-jhok
Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; August 18, 2024)
We know of Kartik Aaryan as an actor, but what is he like when the cameras aren’t rolling? Only a sister can give us a glimpse into his world beyond cinema. Family has a way of keeping you rooted, after all, and keeping all your secrets, or do they not? We chatted with Kartik and his younger sister, Dr Kritika Tiwari, to uncover their special bond ahead of Raksha Bandhan. Read on...
Friendship, trust, confidante – what does the brother-sister bond mean to you today?
Kartik: This relationship has the purest form of trust and selflessness. I have to say, having a sister is a blessing and it’s sonay pe suhaga if she becomes your best friend. Sisters are the best secret keepers. Even today, I have that comfort with Kittu where I share everything with her. Despite my shooting schedule and her professional and academic life, we are constantly in touch with each other over messages and calls.
Kritika: It’s good to have a person in your life who is there for you no matter what. Even if it does not solve things, having this sort of safe space is important. As Kartik said, we are always in touch. We have our long conversations over random phone calls at odd hours to share the stuff we’re going through. The feeling is good. I am his confidante, but it’s not so much the other way around because he is a momma’s boy, so I know he will tell mom sooner or later.
Kartik, is Kittu your biggest critic or your biggest fan, and why?
Kartik: She is my cheerleader, but she is also honest about her thoughts and feedback. If she likes something, she will appreciate it, and if she doesn’t like something, she will say it openly. She will never sugarcoat anything just to make me feel better. And I always wait to hear her thoughts as her views are clear and unbiased. Also, whenever I’m going through something personal or having a bad day, she is my go-to person because just by talking to her or spending some time with her, things start looking better. She is younger but wiser than me. She has a solution to all the problems in the world. I am blessed to have a sister like Kittu.
How different or similar are you two as people, and what binds the two of you?
Kartik: Kittu is very practical, while I think from my heart. I don’t know how, but she has more friends than I do (laughs). We do have one similarity, and that is, we both love the mountains, but sadly, I get to visit the mountains less while she manages to make her trips.
Kritika: We are poles apart as individuals. I am more outdoorsy, loud and talkative, and he’s mostly quiet, composed and a workaholic. As much as I appreciate how hardworking he is, I do wish he could find ways to let go and chill a little bit more. We’re a perfect combo of calm and chaos.
Take us through your fond Raksha Bandhan memories. Is Kartik a good gift giver?
Kritika: Raksha Bandhan has always been a special and awaited day every year for us. As a kid, I got chocolates as gifts, which we would share. I remember him having a box in which he’d save coins (any change that he found lying around). We called it the “sikka bank”. Receiving a 1, 2 or 5 rupees coin on rakhi out of the sikka bank made me the happiest! It was money for candies. When he went to college and I was in Bhopal doing my MBBS, I would write him letters every year. As much as I missed celebrating Raksha Bandhan together, writing Rakhi letters to him became one of my favourite things to do. Now that we’re all in the same city, there is no room for excuses. We have to find time and celebrate Rakhi together. About his gifts, it’s mostly him being thoughtful and getting me something close to my heart after picking up on my dropped hints. But if and when it’s a new phone, I know he remembered at the last moment.
Any Raksha Bandhan ritual that you follow even today?
Kartik: We both are busy with our respective commitments, but we just try to make sure that we celebrate the festival together, no matter what. This year, I am out of the country for a work commitment, but I made sure before leaving that we celebrate Rakhi together and had our favourite mom ke hath ka bana khaana, especially halwa.
What people will remember is not my fees, but the characters I play-Kartik Aaryan
8:14 AM
For actor Kartik Aaryan, films and roles that bring him happiness are the actual ‘rewards’ instead of money
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; July 11, 2024)
The debate over how much an actor charges in fees has become a hot topic at the moment. Amid all this, Kartik Aaryan doesn’t want to be identified just by his market price.
“I have stopped talking about money when I am approached for a film,” the actor says, adding, “There was a time when I needed money; when I was like, ‘Mujhe thoda paison ki zaroorat hai’. But now I have reached a point where I feel I don’t work [just] for money.”
Aaryan, who is currently shooting for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, tells us what drives him. “I do films for my happiness. I pick roles that will make me happy as well as entertain people. I feel rewarded by that. It is very important that people like what I do. What they will remember is not my fees, but the characters I play.”
The actor, who was recently seen in Chandu Champion, had to struggle to get facetime with makers in his initial days. However, Aaryan believes, “the business is such”. “A lot of people don’t have the time for you; in fact, they won’t invest time [in you]. Otherwise, they won’t be able to do their jobs,” he shares.
To manoeuvre his way around this, the actor prefers “staying away” from those who “have been rude for no reason, to not just me but anyone else too”. “You need to judge a person on the basis of how they treat other people around them. I observe all this — be it in my lowest or highest phase. [In fact] Highs mein zyaada pata chalta hai yeh sab,” Aaryan concludes.
If I got to know that my fee is affecting a film, I took a cut-Kartik Aaryan
8:29 AM
Getting candid, Kartik Aaryan believes the film is always the priority; talks rising film costs and making tough calls as an actor
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 10, 2024)
Lately, it has been go, go, go for actor Kartik Aaryan, without a “moment to rest’. “I haven’t slept in four nights; I’ve been in different time zones after the launch of the Chandu Champion trailer in Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh). I was in London for an event, then in Mumbai, followed by Delhi, Dubai and now, I’m back in Mumbai,” explains the actor, who wants to “get everything right” before the release of his next. The biopic, a first in his career, is based on the life of freestyle swimmer Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist.
The 33-year-old has joined hands with filmmaker Kabir Khan, another first. He shares, “We were supposed to meet and I thought the meeting would last maybe 15 to 20 minutes. But we ended up chatting for two-and-a-half-hours and I was very excited when he narrated Murli sir’s story to me.”
ON THE RISING FILM COSTS DEBATE
In the past, Aaryan has taken decisions where he has put the well-being of the film ahead of demanding a higher fee. The actor opted to become a co-producer on his 2023 film, Shehzada, taking a fee cut, and this move helped to control the film’s budget. Today, as conversations around the rising costs of film due to celebrity’s entourage and exorbitant fees rage on, we ask him his take on the debate.
As an actor, Aaryan feels it is important to be involved in all aspects of the film, especially the budget. “Aise nahi hai ki mujhe pehle bauhaut paise milte the. When I got to the point where my fees could affect my film and if I got to know that it is affecting the film’s journey, then I took a call on my remuneration. My logic is you have to know the economics behind a film, if it’s going to be profitable. If it won’t, then everybody should chip in to try and make things work. It can’t be that only one person is in the profitable zone and nobody else is; that is wrong,” he wraps up.
A shift from the ‘goofy charmer’
Most of Aaryan’s characters have been the ‘charming romantic’. His next will be a stark departure from this. Ask why not continue and capitalize on the ‘cute’ image for guaranteed financial success and he says, “When films come your way you have to decide [what kind of films you want to do]. That decision can’t be made on the basis of agar ek chal gayi toh yahi genre ki film karunga. There was a time I didn’t have many options but I gave 200% to my work. Now I have options and I go with my instinct. It is like an exam, you don’t know what the result will be.”
If we win this world cup, I am sure we will, India will celebrate another round of Diwali-Kartik Aaryan
8:48 AM
Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; November 19, 2023)
Kartik Aaryan, who has been busy shooting in Wai, took some time out to soak in the cricket frenzy and celebrate India’s unbeaten run in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 with Bombay Times.
Ahead of the massive India vs Australia WC final today in Ahmedabad, positive about a historic win, the actor shares his thoughts. Excerpts…
Any match day jitters? We all are hoping for a fairy-tale ending, aren’t we? India has stayed unbeaten in this tournament and now the team is all set for the big final against Australia. What’s your mood right now?
There's no question of nervousness. There’s pure joy and excitement to see India get to the finals. We’ve had a dream run so far and it has been a historic World Cup. Be it the records we've broken and especially getting this far with only victories and NO LOSS is extremely commendable. I am super excited. It does feel like a fairy-tale.
What are your plans for the big final today?
I have already requested Kabir (Khan) sir to give us some time off from the shoot for the epic finale because that is something we cannot miss! My team and I have been shooting for the longest time throughout the world cup. But someone from my team is always updated with the match score and whenever we are between the shots, we would all watch it together. I have been following the world cup closely. I didn't want to miss watching Virat Kohli's tremendous form with the bat and Mohammed Shami's terrific bowling. The rush of watching the match with your closed ones is unmatched. My cricket fever doesn’t diminish even during hectic shoots.
Cricket is in our blood as they say. Talk to us about your memories and connect with the game.
I just enjoy the sport, be it playing or watching it. Even now when I get the chance, I am always game for it. On the sets of Chandu Champion whenever we get a break or a day off, we all plan a game of cricket and play together. I have so many memories attached to the game. Back in Gwalior, when we were kids, we used to play cricket on the streets a lot. I remember how everyone would get together to watch the World Cup, especially the India-Pakistan match. It felt like a festival. Everyone would be clapping and hooting and almost celebrating our fours and sixes and every wicket of the opposition. Even today, the thrill to watch our Indian players play is the same - it makes one’s heart thump with every ball. Cricket is a festival in India that everyone loves to celebrate with all their heart and spirit. Since I have been so fond of cricket since childhood, I am always star struck whenever I meet our cricket legends.
Even cricketers are superstitious, are you one when you watch a big clash like this? Any things that you do or don’t do while watching a match?
Not really but you know how it is when we Indians watch cricket with friends and family. We are so engrossed in it and want India to win every match at any cost, that if anything said or done works coincidentally in our favour, one must then follow it throughout the match (laughs). But all of this is fun and such superstitions must be treated lightly. Because no matter what we do, it is our team’s sheer hard work that produces results. They bleed blue to make us proud.
Virat’s 50 ODI centuries, Rohit Sharma’s destructive form, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul and Shami’s terrific form. Every member has contributed but what has been the highlight of this WC for you?
Virat's 50th ODI century was a milestone and what a proud & historic moment it was for all of us. What made this moment truly so special for everyone who has grown up loving & living cricket is the fact that Sachin Tendulkar sir himself was present at Wankhede. He’s known as the God of cricket and when his record was broken, he humbly congratulated Virat and praised him highly. That century was so memorable, even though he had cramps, he kept fighting and completed his 50th century - exceptional! K L Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Shubman Gill, Jadeja, Bumrah are all in such a great form right now. Rohit Sharma is a phenomenal captain and finally, there are no words for Shami’s iconic bowling - the way he took 7 wickets in the semifinal, he owned the game and how. Despite missing the first 4 matches, he's the leading wicket taker in the tournament, hats off for this achievement. The semi-final match was iconic.
How will you celebrate tonight if India wins?
If we win this world cup, I am sure we will, India will celebrate another round of Diwali. Finally, 2003 WC ka badla pura ho jayega (laughs). When we had won the World Cup in 2011, I remember the streets were crowded, people were out with the national flag, celebrating on the roads with crackers and fireworks. What a moment it was! I hope to witness the same tonight. And I'm sure we will be celebrating it on our sets of Chandu Champion with the whole crew aur phir toh mere liye woh cheat meal day ban jaayega... fir se Cake kaatengey. Hope my trainers are not reading this (laughs).
I’m living the dream that I never want to end-Kartik Aaryan
8:44 AM
Ahead of his closing performance at IFFI, today, Kartik Aaryan calls it a ‘great way’ to usher in his birthday
Monika Rawal Kukreja (HINDUSTAN TIMES; November 20, 2022)
Kartik Aaryan is in no mood to take a break or pause. He continues to enjoy a successful stint at the box office, is a favourite among brands, and now has added another feather to his hat: the actor is set to perform the grand closing act at the 53rd International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa today. In a candid chat, Aaryan tells us how he lets all this adulation sink in and never ever gets complacent.
Beginning the year with Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’s unprecedented success and ending it with a performance at the IFFI opening ceremony. Does it all feel surreal?
Totally! I have a great sense of gratitude. Last year, I ventured into OTT and did something totally different in Dhamaka, which was appreciated. Then there’s the success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 post-pandemic, now I have Freddy around the corner, which is again a new genre for me. I feel blessed to be working with some fine directors and pushing my boundaries. This act at IFFI 2022 is a celebration of that.
Do you feel small milestones like performing at IFFI make a big difference in your journey?
I believe nothing is too small for an impact or to make the right noise. So, I approach everything with the same energy and enthusiasm and give my 100% dedication. It’s a huge honour to take the stage at such a prestigious and respected event.
When your fans call you unstoppable, how do you react to it?
I feel like I have miles to go and so much to do! The moment I feel content and complacent is when the growth stops. I am constantly wanting to learn, grow and experiment. I’m living the dream that I never want to end.
On November 22, you turn 32. Would you call it a perfect birthday week with your act at IFFI?
Performing at IFFI is a great way to usher in my birthday and is a matter of pride for me. It’s been a busy but phenomenal year. I feel extremely grateful for this birthday, and it’s only encouraged me to work harder.
Indian youth is brimming with potential-Kartik Aaryan
8:55 AM
In an exclusive interview on the occasion of Independence Day, Kartik Aaryan shares what the day and freedom mean to him
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; August 15, 2022)
Actor Kartik Aaryan is the man of the moment, and he has the youth of the country hanging on to his every word. When we take him to Juhu beach, Mumbai, for this exclusive shoot, a crowd gathers in no time. But the Tricolour has all his attention! As we celebrate the 75th year of India’s independence, the 31-year-old gets talking to us about freedom. Excerpts:
From just being another holiday in school to now, how much has the way you look at Independence Day changed?
I remember the flag hoisting ceremonies in school, special programmes, waiting for laddoos, listening to patriotic songs... But when you learn more of the history, it gets more real. The idea of it then shifted from a fun holiday to a sense of responsibility and gratitude for those who made it possible. There’s also immense love for Bharat Mata — a feeling that exists everyday, but gets super special on I-Day. A few years ago, I was invited to my old school in Gwalior as a chief guest for flag hoisting. It was a special feeling, with nostalgia and so much love from students. It felt like life came full circle for me.
What do you feel the current generation wants from their country?
Opportunity! I feel the youth in India, which has the highest youth population in the world, is brimming with potential and advanced skills. They’re hardworking to the core, always looking for opportunities to soar, aspiring for a better life. With the right opportunities, there is nothing that we as Young India can’t do.
What’s that one thing you feel we still need freedom from in today’s time?
I don’t know if we can say ‘freedom’ from it, but what needs to be erased is the pressure on young minds. The stream they should pick, the profession they should opt for... often, these decisions are not made by the kids but by their family. Such pressure isn’t healthy for their mental state.
Your every word is scrutinized on social media and in public. Does that take away from your freedom?
I wouldn’t say it takes away from my freedom. I am still being myself there. But yes, one must be conscious of what you say there, whether a star or not. Social media has the power to influence the people who follow you. Think twice before you speak.
HT city wishes our readers a happy independence day
I owe all my success and stardom to the audience-Kartik Aaryan
8:25 AM
Harshada Rege (BOMBAY TIMES; May 30, 2022)
After delivering a power-packed performance in Dhamaka, Kartik Aaryan is now flying high with the success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, which had the audience returning to the theatres in large numbers. In a conversation with Bombay Times, Kartik tells us how he is enjoying his success and popularity, and even with so much of it, he never takes it for granted. Excerpts:
Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 has given not just you, but also Bollywood a reason to rejoice. The film has clocked in the biggest opening weekend for a Hindi film this year. Did you anticipate the film to be such a huge success, especially in these times?
Honestly, I had a great feeling about Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 right from the time I heard the script. When the teaser came out, the kind of response we got from the audience for the first asset itself was really exciting. The film was made for families and groups of friends to go out and enjoy together. So, we always hoped it would pull in the masses, but it totally exceeded our expectations with the massive reception it actually got...with the audience whistling and clapping and the film getting the biggest opening weekend for a Hindi film of the year, and crossing the Rs. 100-crore mark so quickly. I am really glad that the audience is loving Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 with all their heart and having so much fun watching it more than once in theatres.
To what do you attribute the success of this film?
In a post-pandemic time, to be able to deliver a film that reaches such an impressive number within its first 10 days alone is one of the most surreal feelings as an actor. I attribute the success, firstly, to the entire team who worked on it for three years, the makers who had this vision and made it come true so impeccably and most importantly, to the audience who have been showering it with so much love and have accepted us with open arms.
Horror comedy is a genre that hasn’t been explored as much in Bollywood. What pushed you to pick this role and now that the film is a success, do you feel vindicated?
I have always said this, I don’t want to restrict myself to any specific type of role. If I like a script, I will take it up irrespective of the genre the film belongs to. Even my other upcoming films are quite different from each other. Shehzada is a full-on entertainer, while Freddy is in a thriller space. Sajid Nadiadwala’s untitled film is a love story and Captain India is an inspiring film. Horror comedy is a comparatively lesser-explored genre, and it is a tricky space to ace, but Anees Bazmee sir has done such a phenomenal job there with Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, I’m glad I could be a part of this iconic world.
You didn’t have any connection in the industry or belong to any film family when you stepped into the industry. In fact, you didn’t have a grand launch and began your career with filmmakers who themselves were fairly new in the business. In that sense, your journey and your rise to stardom is quite an interesting story...
Yes, a movie can be made on my journey (laughs). Getting that first break as an outsider is such a huge task that it felt impossible at every stage. But giving up was never an option. It was definitely quite a struggle to get started and I had to go for a million auditions until Pyaar Ka Punchnama (PKP) finally happened. PKP did decent business for a small film, I was even recognized by the audience and critics as the monologue guy, but still, it took a long time for the journey to kickstart. I had to still audition. Being an outsider can be tough, but the trick is to keep trying and ensure that your heart is in the right place. My passion was always to act and entertain the audience, so keeping that as my goal, I kept trying until I made a mark. Even today, with 100-crore films to my credit, I don’t sit back and take it lightly. I know that I have to continue the hard work and double it because this job demands a lot and I am ready to give my 100 per cent. I owe all my success and stardom to the audience, I am where I am today because of their endless love and support.
You are often looked upon by filmmakers as a complete commercial package — someone who has struck a chord with the masses, has been successful in various genres and enjoys an immense following on social media, too. In your opinion, what is it about you that the audience connects with and relates to the most?
I am very grateful to hear that and glad that my passion is speaking for me today. I think the reason for the connect is that I myself have been that audience and I have come from amongst the crowd. So, when I see the love from my fans, I try my best to give back as much as I can. During Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 promotions, I visited various cities across different states. Each city welcomed me warmly and showered so much love that the feeling is unexplainable and that’s the feeling I live for. So it’s the audience and my mutual admiration for each other that I love. Also, I don’t see any reason for me to change. I was the same Kartik Aaryan before being an actor, I am the same right now. I am very connected to my roots and my family, too, supports me a lot and, at the same time, helps me stay grounded.
It’s obviously an exciting time for you. Are you in celebration mode, or are you back to work already?
I celebrated Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’s success on its first weekend itself. I went to Gaiety cinema in Mumbai last weekend and made sure to celebrate the big success with the audience. For me, that was my celebration mode. I danced with them, I talked to them about the film and of course, seeing the ‘House Full’ board made me very happy. I have always said that I’m a fan-made star. So, my celebration would be incomplete without them.
This success has put you in the top league of actors in the industry. How do you feel about this shift?
All I can say is that I feel closer to my goal of wanting to be the No. 1 actor and the feeling is great (smiles).
I am really lucky to have a family where I have a very supportive father, mother and sister-Kartik Aaryan
8:37 AM
He is happy to have people who he knows will stand by him during his not-so-good times too
Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; January 8, 2022)
From Pyaar Ka Punchnama to Dhamaka, Kartik Aaryan has come a long way. The actor who hails from Gwalior has made Mumbai his home and has been enjoying a successful career in Bollywood. While he’s seen his highs, there was a time where was going through his share of lows too. Remember the phase where he was apparently dropped from a couple of films last year? The actor had even gone underground for a while only to comeback with a bang, where he won praises for his last release Dhamaka.
To sail through such tough times, Kartik is happy that he has a bunch of people who he knows would stand by him during his not-so-good times too. He says, “When things are not going your way and your chips are down… you feel glad to have those loved ones around you. These are the people who really push you or really help you through it. I am really lucky to have a family where I have a very supportive father, mother and sister. That apart I am still in touch with my college and school friends who help me stay grounded.”
Not only his folks and family, Kartik also thanks his fans for supporting him come what may. “I have a loyal fan base who has always been there for me. So you see, even if things are not going in my way I have a great team, great people around me and so it works out pretty well for me. Yeh highs and lows sabke life mein aate hai, but you never lose hope.”
The one fan who kept a fast for me was something that I never expected fans would do-Kartik Aaryan
8:22 AM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (December 30, 2021)
The biggest surprise or ‘dhamaka’ of 2021 has been Kartik Aaryan as Arjun Pathak. The actor wrapped up this year with a bang with Dhamaka, his superhit release. The movie has become a favourite among his fans and critics alike. And after having impressed the audience with this whole new genre, Aaryan promises to deliver even more varied and surprising roles in the coming year.
With your OTT blockbuster, Dhamaka, people saw your true potential as an actor in a new genre. How do you feel when you look back at 2021?
When Ram (Madhvani, director) sir put his faith in me and gave me this author-backed role of Arjun Pathak, I instantly knew I would put in my blood, sweat, tears and anything that the role demanded to make it happen. It was a conscious decision to step into a different arena, but also a risk that paid off. I was overwhelmed with the love the film received, be it from the audience or critics. The praise and love for my role gave me a huge sense of validation as an actor. Dhamaka’s success has also given me the confidence to explore things outside of my comfort zone and push the envelope. Also, it was my debut on OTT and it has been such a dhamakedaar one that it has made 2021 extra special.
How does it feel to be on most filmmakers’ wish lists and to have an incredible lineup set for release next year?
I feel blessed and my heart swells with gratitude that, as an outsider with no connections to the industry, I am now topping big filmmakers’ wish list. I’ve dreamt of being an actor for as long as I can remember, and now I’ve reached a position where I can actually choose the kind of films I’d like to do. And once an actor reaches that stage, one has to double up their hard work. So, today when I see my forthcoming films, be it Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, Shehzada, Freddy, Captain India or Sajid (Nadiadwala, filmmaker) sir’s love story, they all belong to different genres, and this makes my journey exciting.
As an incredible year for you comes to a close, what’s on your wish list this New Year?
The year 2021 has treated me well. I am safe, healthy and so are my family and loved ones. It has also been a great year professionally, one of risks and rewards. Dhamaka changed the perspective of filmmakers towards me. I hope 2022 is just as kind and rewarding. I can’t wait for audiences and my fans to see me take on different roles, and I hope to have their continued support and love.
With such a varied lineup spread across different genres, are you consciously choosing to do different kinds of films?
Yes, that is something I started thinking about more recently, once I had that opportunity to really choose my projects. I want to expand my boundaries as an actor. I want to play many characters and live different lives. That’s not to say I don’t enjoy the kind of roles I have already done, but even in those spaces, I would like to try and do things differently. I think it is very important to reinvent and move with the times. That, to me, is a mark of a great actor.
You have one of the widest and most ardent fan bases in the country today. Has any fan story, in particular, stood out for you this year?
I think the #KartikPurnima trend really surprised me — fans dedicating a day to you, expressing their love, sharing videos, performing rituals. Even the one fan who kept a fast for me was something that I never expected fans would do. I feel so eternally grateful. Another interesting incident was when a fan showed me a tattoo she got for me — a permanent inking of my name and birth date. Such small gestures by my fans really make me happy and make me think that all my hard work is worth it, as I receive so much love.
My dream is to be the number one actor in this industry-Kartik Aaryan
8:14 AM
Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; November 22, 2021)
From being an actor known for acing the rom-com genre, Kartik Aaryan has come a long way. His portrayal of Arjun Pathak in the recently released Dhamaka shows him in a different light as an actor and brings out a shade of his talent that we’ve never seen before. On his birthday today, Kartik talks about becoming wiser as an actor with every passing day. He calls himself a ‘fanmade actor’ and says that the appreciation from viewers for Dhamaka has boosted his confidence to take up more challenging roles in the future. Excerpts from the chat...
Your latest film Dhamaka is being touted as your career’s best performance so far. What is the feedback you’ve got from your fans and members of the film fraternity that has touched you the most?
For the longest time, I was looking to do something different from what I had done before. I am glad that everyone is so surprised and happy seeing my performance in Dhamaka. The one comment on social media that caught my attention is — ‘Where was this Kartik Aaryan, the actor?’ I am also excited with the way members of the film fraternity reacted to my performance after I met them at the film’s screening. They saw a different shade of me and were pleasantly surprised as it surpassed their imagination. All this while, I was seen as a commercial star, now they are happy to see me as a commercial-actor star.
With romance or comedy films, sometimes the audience misses taking notice of little nuances in a performance. Thankfully, with films of certain genres like Dhamaka, people take notice of these.
With this film you got to showcase your range as an actor. Do you think it will help you further cement your position in the industry?
My dream is to be the number one actor in this industry. This film gave me that opportunity. I can see that the fraternity has taken notice of me as an actor. I’m certain Dhamaka will give me an opportunity to work with filmmakers that I always aspired to team up with and a chance to showcase my talent. Steadily, the options are opening up.
When the film was being made did you anticipate that it would be received so well by the audience?
Yes, I was pretty sure. It was for the first time that I was collaborating with an ace filmmaker like Ram Madhvani sir. I have loved his work and craft. Well, the jodi worked! With this project, I knew what the content was and what we were getting into.
What also helped was the backing of maverick producers like Ronnie Screwvala and Amita Madhvani. I felt like I was in safe hands and confident about the final outcome. I was expecting a lot of love to come my way and that is what is happening right now. It is truly an edge-of-the-seat thriller, which I also felt while reading the script. The entire film unfolds in one room, yet, it has that scale and the commercial value. The characters are quite relatable and the climax of the film is beautiful. I went ahead with my gut feeling and I am happy to see the love that people are showering on the film. The only thing I was nervous about was the fact that I was shifting to another genre with this project. I was playing a very grey character. I was wondering how my fans would react, but today I am happy with the outcome.
On your birthday today, tell us about the most dhamakedaar birthday you’ve ever had...
It is definitely this birthday! I want to thank everyone for showing so much love to Dhamaka. This is really my biggest birthday present ever. I have always said that I am a fan-made hero. I took this leap of faith and did the film, and I am glad that my fans supported me. I am grateful to them. With this, I am confident to push my boundaries as an actor.
So, could we say this is Kartik Aaryan 2.0? What can we expect from your upcoming films?
Arjun Pathak was quite a challenging role and you will definitely see me taking on more such challenging roles in the future. With my forthcoming films, I will be venturing into playing characters that are very different and far from what I have done before. You will see me in different avatars in movies like Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, Freddy, Shehzada and Captain India. It was a conscious decision by me to line up films that will be different from each other. Having said that, I won’t let go of my territory, which is rom-com. I will, of course, continue doing that, too.
You’ve come a long way — today you have filmmakers approaching you with varied content, you are winning immense appreciation from critics and the audience, and fans are joining you in celebrating the success of your films. How does it all feel?
(Laughs!) I know right? My fans celebrated and remembered me on Kartik Purnima. It feels good when fans shower so much love on you. It has been a great journey. I am proud of my struggles and where I have come from. I am proud of my highs and lows, my success and failures. I have learnt a lot from it all and because of the failures I have seen, I value this position where I am today a lot more. I don’t want to lose it and so, I will keep on working hard. I will keep entertaining my audience and hopefully, I will keep doing more and more challenging films in the future.
With my first film Pyaar Ka Punchnama (2011), I got a loyal fan base, and from then to Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety (2018), it grew by many folds. When my chips were down, my fans believed in me and boosted my morale to go ahead and prove myself. Sometimes, I feel I am privileged to get so much love. There was a time where I was trying to get into the industry, then there was a time where I wanted to get my second or third film, and then there was a time when I wanted people to know my name... as they would refer to me as the monologue actor (from Pyaar Ka Punchnama). It was only after Sonu Ke... that people registered my name. I am finally in a space where I am getting the opportunities to explore myself as an actor and play challenging characters. It definitely feels that I have arrived now.
Ram Madhvani ensured that actors were not allowed to meet each other before the shoot-Kartik Aaryan
8:19 AM
Stepping out of his comfort zone with Dhamaka, Kartik says director’s unusual style of working helped him become the morally corrupt character
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; November 16, 2021)
Frothy romantic comedies can wait. For now, Kartik Aaryan has taken a step back from the genre to try his hand at a hard-hitting thriller with Dhamaka. And one of the more able directors in Bollywood is guiding him through the unfamiliar path. “Becoming Arjun Pathak was quite difficult,” begins the actor, who essays the role of a news anchor chasing TRPs while the city of Mumbai is under attack, in the Netflix film.
The first step to embracing the part was to surrender to director Ram Madhvani’s unconventional style of working. “Ram likes to shoot in a certain way; he takes us in a zone [and then lets us explore it as characters]. Also, he does 20-minute takes. So, whenever we’d go back to watch our take, it used to be a long session. Ram had also ensured that the actors were not allowed to meet each other before the shoot.”
He says that the process, unsettling as it was initially, has enriched him as an artiste. “My talks with him helped me get into the mind of Arjun Pathak. It was a challenging role, but he walked me through it. It’s an experience I want to relive. It’s not easy to be that honest in front of the camera.”
For an actor who has had more than his share of smitten loverboy roles, the complexity of the won’t-stop-at-anything news anchor was an instant draw. “I enjoyed the fact that Arjun is not vanilla. He is an opportunist, and has shades of grey. His moral compass is [skewed]. It was emotionally draining as the character goes through many [trying] situations. That said, it was an opportunity to utilise all my energy and invest in that role.”
The film, also starring Amruta Subhash and Mrunal Thakur, is an adaptation of the South Korean film, The Terror Live (2013). At the centre of the remake, however, lies a crucial message.
Aaryan adds, “[While being a thriller], the film beautifully shows that your choices [determine] what you gain and lose.”
I am a fan-made hero, I try to push myself to do better for them-Kartik Aaryan
7:54 AM
BOMBAY TIMES (November 12, 2021)
Bollywood’s ‘Chocolate Boy’ Kartik Aaryan is all set to redefine his craft, and his latest outing, Dhamaka, is solid proof of that. Going by the trailer, it’s evident that he will raise the bar with his performance in it. Kartik seems to be on a mission to take his career graph to the next level. Excerpts from a chat with the actor:
Shooting for a film like Dhamaka must have been difficult amid the pandemic, let alone completing the entire shoot within 10 days. How did you manage to do that?
It was definitely a difficult task, but I feel extremely proud that the entire team managed to finish it in this record time because I don’t think that has happened before with any film. This was possible only because Ram sir (director Ram Madhvani) and everyone on set had prepared everything down to the last detail. I had started my prep months before the shoot began. By the time I was on set, I was living Arjun Pathak mentally. That is how we managed to complete the shoot smoothly and on time, which was quite cool.
Arjun Pathak, the character you play in Dhamaka, seems very serious and different from the kind of roles we have seen you play before. Did you go through a different process to prepare for this role?
Dhamaka is the most challenging film of my career so far, and Arjun Pathak is the most difficult character that I have played. In reality, I’m a very high-spirited person, so when I did a few of my previous films, which were in the rom-com space, I felt slightly more comfortable. However, Dhamaka pushed me to expand my boundaries as an actor. I play the role of a journalist, so my prep had definitely increased and was more detailed. I studied the lives of news reporters and watched various documentaries for a better understanding. It was also during the lockdown, so that gave me the time to get into this character deeply. Arjun’s character is layered and intense, so I really worked to live him in every way possible.
I studied the lives of news reporters and watched various documentaries for a better understanding. It was also during the lockdown, so that gave me that time to get into this character deeply. Arjun’s character is layered and intense, so I really worked to live him in every way possible.
Considering the fact that you were working with an acclaimed director like Ram Madhvani, especially playing the kind of role that you were exploring for the first time, did that add to the pressure?
Working with a director like Ram sir is a dream come true. It was definitely intimidating at first, but once you get on the set with him, he is just so phenomenal and inspiring that his presence alone makes you give your best. With Dhamaka, it was more about a chance to do something different as an actor, which made me push my limits. I am grateful for that pressure because it reminds you that there is someone counting on you, and you have the responsibility to deliver your best.
Dhamaka is releasing in a few days and those who have watched the film have been praising your performance. How nervous are you to see the audience’s reaction?
I am very happy about the response that we have received so far, but yes, there is slight nervousness too, because I have worked extremely hard for this role, and I hope the audiences enjoy watching it as much as we enjoyed making it for them.
Theatres have recently re-opened, but Dhamaka will be releasing on an OTT platform. What are your thoughts on that?
I am aware of the importance of a theatrical release. But the scenario that we are in, the question shouldn’t be between theatre or OTT, it should be theatre and OTT. It is a great opportunity for us to put out our creativity across different platforms, catering to a wider global audience. So, Dhamaka releasing on OTT is quite cool. It is definitely one of those films that I think people would love to enjoy in a comfortable environment with their family. It is really exciting to know that your work is directly at the tip of the finger for people way beyond just one country. It helps put your work out on a global level, so I am definitely looking forward to that.
Your forthcoming films, Freddy, Dhamaka, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Shehzada, belong to different genres and you have been shooting for them back-to-back. How challenging has this process been and do you manage to take time out for yourself between these films?
Honestly, at work is the best time I can give to myself. It is the time that I love the most, besides spending time with family and close friends. But I feel fortunate that I get to do what I love every day. It surely has been hectic, but I enjoy it to the fullest and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Transforming for each film gives me an inexpressible adrenaline rush.
Currently, you are one of the busiest actors of the industry with an impressive line-up of films, along with a huge fandom, especially among girls. Is that something that motivates you or is it a distraction?
No, why will it distract me (laughs!). In fact, it motivates me to do better. Not just female fan following, but male following too… I am a fan-made hero. It is for them that I always try something different and push myself to do better, so technically they are the reason for where I am today.
I’m never shedding the lover boy image. It’s a privilege that doesn’t trouble me-Kartik Aaryan
8:15 AM
Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; December 16, 2020)
Gwalior boy Kartik Aaryan has carved a niche for himself in Bollywood in a relatively short span of time. The actor’s unkempt voluminous hair, boyish smile and ability to mouth monologues in romcoms that revolve around the battle of the sexes catapulted him to stardom. His upcoming thriller Dhamaka will see him breaking away from the ‘Kartik Aaryan brand of cinema’, or so we believe. In an exclusive chat with Bombay Times, the actor opens up on life, movies and how the year changed him as a person.
In our last interaction, you said you love to be a ‘massy hero’. With the OTT boom and the kind of movies that are being made today, are you slowly inching towards what is perhaps more experimental or unconventional? Has this year changed your outlook towards the choices you will make from now on as an actor?
Not at all. In fact, I think the OTTs are changing their approach from what it was a couple of years back. We’re seeing so many conventional big-ticket Bollywood films releasing on OTT now. I think it’s best for everyone. Our country’s DNA has commercial and massy ingrained in it. This is reflecting even in the original series that are being made for the web platforms. But it’s true that now we have a big safety net because of digital platforms and actors do not have to dismiss unconventional roles because of the risk factor. My primary criteria still remains the same though — I should get entertained by the script. I won’t choose roles just for the sake of being experimental or unconventional.
From acing the monologue act and romcoms, to entering the thriller space with Ram Madhvani’s Dhamaka. Are you happy to shed the lover boy image finally?
Dhamaka is going to be a pleasant surprise for everyone. Yes, it’s a thriller, but it’s so much more. It keeps you on the edge throughout and talks about so many relevant things that are going on in our society right now. It’s my most commercial film yet.
However, I’m never shedding the lover boy image. It’s a privilege that doesn’t trouble me at all. My favourite lover boy is still Shah Rukh Khan and so is India’s. Even after Dhamaka, I have horror-comedy, rom-com and family films coming up. I’ll keep doing a variety of films. I feel blessed to have a line-up covering so many genres.
Was Dhamaka a conscious decision to move away from the Kartik Aaryan brand of lighthearted cinema? What prompted you to do so?
It is a conscious decision to expand the Kartik Aaryan brand of cinema. Light-hearted is still the flagship. The more of my ‘light-hearted’ work people enjoy, the more they will look forward to my hard-hitting roles. Actually, KokiPoochega (his online talk show during lockdown) may have been a push in this direction. People were extremely kind and warm to me, and we spoke about serious issues.
I don’t think I had to ‘handle’ anything. When I was offered Love Aaj Kal, I was most excited about the process of working on an Imtiaz Ali love story. The process completely lived up to my imagination. I have learnt so much from being on Imtiaz sir’s set, and the energy was on another level. It has given me so much as an actor that I genuinely never bothered about the outcome. A great box office performance would have been nice, but a below average one doesn’t bother me at all. At least not yet. Plus, the fact that my performance was so appreciated, especially by my favourite filmmakers, is more than enough for me.
Do you think 2020 has forever changed the way we watch films or consume content? Has there been any change in how you watch films now?
I think it has only broadened our horizons. We are more accepting of different platforms than before, but that does not mean it will change cinema. People will still go to the theatres. Films are an event for us. How can that ever change? The fact that people have the capacity to now binge watch is an advantage to all makers, regardless of the format and platform.
What has been your biggest learning through this pandemic phase?
Looking ahead, I think we all will come out as better people now. I always valued relationships and people, but having got so much time to spend with family and on the phone with my friends, has refreshed me in a very positive manner. I feel great energy in life right now, which I believe everyone must be feeling. We have definitely made our bonds stronger.
Talk us through your forthcoming releases and what drew you to them?
Dhamaka talks about such an important issue that is going on around us every day that anyone will be hooked on to it from the very first minute. For Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Dostana 2, I don’t think I need to say what drew me to them. They are two of my favourite films from recent years. To be able to do a sequel with such awesome scripts is a no-brainer.
Playing a romantic hero was always a dream-Kartik Aaryan
8:32 AM
Calling himself a Shah Rukh Khan fan, Kartik Aaryan feels he has ‘changed as a person’ after working with Imtiaz Ali
Prashant Singh (HINDUSTAN TIMES; February 13, 2020)
Kartik Aaryan just can’t thank his stars enough for the success that he is enjoying. Since his big breakthrough film, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety (SKTKS; 2018), the actor has been on a roll and seems to have clearly become one of the most sought-after young stars in Bollywood. With an enviable line-up and a spotless box office trajectory, he is surely having a dream run. And that’s what the Love Aaj Kal actor plans to steam ahead with. “I want people to look forward to every film I do, and that’s why I’m trying to do different genres,” says Kartik, who was also seen in films such as Luka Chuppi and Pati Patni Aur Woh (both 2019).
After SKTKS, you’ve had back-to-back hits. Is there any sort of pressure with your next release?
I’d be lying if I say there’s no pressure. Being actors, we know that a Friday is very crucial for everyone attached to a film, including us. But, I guess everyone would agree that it’s a feeling any actor would like to go through. I know that there are certain expectations from me and my film, and we’ve to live up to it. In Love Aaj Kal, I’ve played a double role for the first time, so I’m excited and nervous as well. Also, I’m curious to know how the audiences react to it.
The film puts you in a completely new zone, of an out-and-out romantic hero in an Imtiaz Ali film. What’s the feeling like?
I’ve grown up watching Shah Rukh Khan’s romantic films. I’m his huge fan. So, playing a romantic hero was always my dream. Now, for the first time, I’ve got an opportunity to portray, not one, but two different characters from two different eras, who are hard-core romantic at heart. And the fact that I got to do ‘something different’ in an Imtiaz Ali film — who is known for creating a magical yet relatable romantic world — is like sone par suhaga, and a very special feeling, too.
Do you find this to be the most exciting time as an actor, getting to work in a range of films, and also with top filmmakers?
I’m grateful to the filmmakers for giving me the opportunity to be part of their dream, their world. It’s the best time to be in the Hindi film industry. Filmmakers are ready to experiment, trying to push the envelope and creating something new. As a result, great scripts are being written. For instance, I saw Tanhaji (earlier this year) and was blown away by the visuals that (director) Om Raut has created. I’m really glad that he thought of me for his next film.
What has been your biggest takeaway from Love Aaj Kal and working with Imtiaz?
This has been my most special experience. After working with him, I feel I’ve changed not only as an actor, but also as a person. That’s the magic of him. I’m waiting for the next opportunity to work with him.
Are you looking at taking up a particular kind of films at this stage of your career?
I want to give a new, exciting experience to the audience with each film. If you see Love Aaj Kal, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Dostana 2, they’re all totally different from each other. Like a pure romantic film, I also wanted to do a big actioner. So, when Om (Raut) narrated me a story, I could see myself in that world. I’m very excited to begin prep for his film. That would require intense prep, and so, I shall start training for it, soon.
Your love life has always been in the spotlight, thanks to a string of link-up rumours (with Ananya Panday and Sara Ali Khan). Have you developed a way to deal with them?
There’s no ‘dealing’ with anything. As a kid, I was a huge fan of film stars, and was always interested in every aspect related to them, and not just the parts they play onscreen. Now, when people are interested in everything about me, I totally understand (the feeling). In fact, I enjoy it. Honestly, it’s a pity that I know the entire truth about what goes into the making of my ‘brand’. Else, I’d have enjoyed finding out what he’s about (laughs). I feel blessed that people love me so much that they keep talking about me (smiles). This is the life I asked for, and am happy to have got it.
It’s not easy for me to move on from a relationship-Kartik Aaryan
8:29 AM
Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; February 13, 2020)
Don’t be fooled by the link-up rumours around him. Beneath all his social media expertise and flirtatious image, Kartik Aaryan is an old-school romantic at heart. The actor’s upcoming film, Love Aaj Kal, is directed by Imtiaz Ali, who is known to delve deep into matters of the heart through his stories. In a conversation with BT, Kartik talks about all things love… aaj and kal. Read on…
When you see relationships today and compare them to those of our parents’ generation, what do you think is missing?
This is my observation, and you can’t generalise, but aaj ke couples saath hoke bhi saath nahi hai — I find that odd. With our parents’ generation, it was the other way around. I am not saying that we value physical intimacy more than emotional intimacy, but yes, it’s rare today. I don’t see that longing in relationships anymore, because we are way too available in terms of social media, instant messaging, video-calling, etc. I miss that distance. You are constantly interacting with each other, and tend to take each other for granted. Somewhere, face-to-face interactions have taken a back seat. That exclusivity of time for each other is no longer there.
We are overtly connected with others through our phones, and yet, we are disconnected, aren’t we?
I could be addicted to my phone, but I am quite old-school when it comes to love. Once I truly connect with someone, I can’t detach easily. I like meeting someone in person rather than texting them. I have never been on a blind date, tried a dating app or online dating. Yeh meri ideologies hain. I want things to be organic. People who generally don’t meet or interact with a lot of people, for them, I am sure dating apps are a big help. For me, it’s very important to know a person before I decide to take the relationship further. I belong to the move-on generation, but it’s not easy for me to move on. I get too invested in a relationship.
In the 90s, love scenes were implied, but today, they are shown realistically. What do you relate to — intimacy that is shown or the one that is implied?
The intimacy that is felt and implied is more relatable. If you show love scenes to commercialise your movie, that’s not required. But, if they justify your story, why not?
What was your biggest takeaway from the previous Love Aaj Kal (2009), starring Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone?
Love Aaj Kal is universally relatable because we often wonder how right or wrong, we were in a relationship. We all fear unrequited love as we want our love to be fulfilled and reciprocated. Uss pyaar mein ek dard hai, par you still crave for it. Getting to experience that kind of love is also a unique feeling in itself. I was in college when that film had released, and I liked it a lot. Be it Love Aaj Kal or his other films, I have always been a fan of Imtiaz Ali sir.
The essence of the story (time changes, but love stays the same) is a constant in the new instalment as well, right?
Love stays the same, but what changes is, how you convey it and your journey towards it. That essence is constant in this film as well, but there aren’t any similarities beyond that. I play two characters in the film (Raghu and Veer). Both the love stories are so relatable that you feel yeh kisi ke saath bhi ho sakta hain. What I like about Imtiaz sir’s films is that unke characters woh cheezein bol dete hain joh aapke dimaag mein chal rahi hoti hain, par aap bol nahin pate. We tend to filter our thoughts, but Imtiaz sir’s characters don’t. They say what they feel, but since we are not conditioned to live that way, it comes across as unconventional.
The story of this film shuttles between two time zones, the 90s and the contemporary times. What was it like to navigate these two time periods?
It was challenging, as I have never worked like this before. Imtiaz sir changed my thought process. I actually lived Veer and Raghu’s lives to play those two characters. I attended body language classes as the two characters are completely different. I also listened to 90s music and wore clothes reflecting that time frame for Raghu’s character. Imtiaz sir is particular about every little detail. For instance, 90s was the time when a guy would wear his father’s blazer and a girl would wear her mother’s sari for the school’s annual function. Guys would always carry a comb in their pockets, but today, we like our hair messy. Also, we don’t want to compromise in relationships or waste our time. Veer is a new-age guy, who says things that are true, but uncalled for.
People associate Ranbir Kapoor with Imtiaz Ali. Be it Rockstar or Tamasha, Ranbir’s ability to breathe life into the filmmaker’s existential crisis-laden love stories has been widely appreciated. As the new face of Imtiaz Ali’s love story, was there any pressure?
I have always said that I am a fan of Ranbir’s talent. Who isn’t? I envy his body of work. I would have loved to play his character from Rockstar (2011). For me, getting an opportunity to work with Imtiaz sir was so big that I couldn’t think of anything beyond that. I didn’t even think about the comparison. All I knew was, main unke picture mein kaam kar rahan hoon. He has worked with the best of actors and to be on that list itself was a big deal for me. The fact that he chose me as the hero of his romantic film gave me the validation that I may be good at portraying romance (smiles). Agar woh convinced hai toh mujhe romance aata hoga. This was the opportunity I was waiting for. It’s my most intense and emotional role till date and I enjoy this genre. Most of my characters have been humourous. Par mujhe hasaane se jyaada rulana pasand hain. I can confidently say that I am creatively satisfied with this film.
Neither Ayushmann Khurrana nor me are seeking commercial advantage-Kartik Aaryan
10:46 AM
Unfazed that Ayushmann's Shubh Mangal enjoys first-mover advantage over his Dostana 2, Kartik says highlighting LGBTQi+ stories more important than box office success
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; February 10, 2020)
In 2016, producer Karan Johar had revealed how he knocked on Fawad Khan's door when as many as six Bollywood actors had refused to play the homosexual character in Kapoor & Sons. Cut to present, Ayushmann Khurrana and Kartik Aaryan are bravely headlining two same-sex love stories — Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan and Dostana 2, respectively.The industry may firmly believe in first-mover advantage, but Aaryan is unperturbed that his comedy will hit screens several months after Khurrana's February 21 release. Stating that the industry is batting unitedly for this cause, he says, "The storylines of the two films are not similar. In fact, the subject is so important that we are all invested in it equally. Neither of us is looking for commercial advantages here, nor [is the Dostana 2 team] feeling slighted that their movie will arrive before ours. We have not represented the queer community appropriately for decades; may 2020 be a year of celebrating such stories. Be it Dostana 2 or Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan, I am glad that these films are finally starting a conversation. Slowly, the hiccups that producers would usually have about such subjects are smoothening out."
Recently, Khurrana told mid-day that he was discouraged by industry folk from playing a homosexual character on screen. Ask Aaryan if he faced any resistance, and he says, "I go with my gut feeling. It doesn't matter what my family, or my PR team advises me. In this case, I discussed the idea with my college friends who encouraged me to take it up."
It has been heard that Aaryan and Janhvi Kapoor play siblings who fall for the same man in the Collin D'Cunha film. "As a movie buff, I was sold on the script's entertainment value," he smiles.
Imtiaz Ali sir helped me go beyond comic timing-Kartik Aaryan
9:41 AM
Aware that he has broken into the big league with Love Aaj Kal, Kartik Aaryan says working with Imtiaz Ali has been a crash course in 'method acting'!
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; February 6, 2020)
For someone functioning on bare minimum sleep, Kartik Aaryan is surprisingly high on energy when we sit down at 10 am for a long chat in the rustic-looking terrace room of Imtiaz Ali's suburban office. "It's yet to sink in that I am the leading man of an Imtiaz Ali film," gushes Aaryan, who remembers watching Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone's Love Aaj Kal (2009) as a wide-eyed college boy in Mumbai.
Over a decade later, the actor finds himself reinventing the love story with Saif's daughter, Sara Ali Khan. The film could well be a sign that he has broken into the big league, but Aaryan is more ecstatic in the knowledge that he has earned an Ali film. "[After working with Ali], my thought process is completely different. I had never done such detailed research for any other film. Imtiaz sir and I sat down and delved into the back-stories of my characters [Veer and Raghu]. I went for body language classes; he taught me method acting for the first time in my career. Before this film, my expertise was comic timing. But Imtiaz sir has helped me go beyond it and widen my range."
As much as he is amused that his dialogue 'Aana toh poori tarah aana, ya toh mat aana' spawned a string of memes, the actor says the line resonated with him. "Veer and Zoe [Sara's character] are talking about things that millennials discuss in their relationships. Jai [Saif's character in the 2009 version] and Veer are far removed from each other. The latter is idealistic and passionate; the former was hosting a break-up party to feign that he doesn't care. Imtiaz's characters are irreverent and candid, and they have opened me up as an artiste. I am so much more unfiltered now."
The industry may have taken a while to recognise his talent, but Aaryan — with big-ticket films Dostana and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 in his kitty — prides himself on making it on his own without a godfather. "With the kind of films that I am a part of, I feel like I finally belong in this industry."
I was giving auditions even after the success of Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2-Kartik Aaryan
8:14 AM
Kartik Aaryan, who hit pay dirt with buddy films, explains why it is imperative to do a project like Imtiaz Ali’s next directorial, a love story
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; February 4, 2020)
Kartik Aaryan appears to be tackling Monday blues better than most people, as he saunters into Love Aaj Kal director Imtiaz Ali’s Lokhandwala office. Settling down with coffee in one hand and a cookie in another, the actor points out that he was a “bro-mantic” actor (with Luv Ranjan’s Pyaar Ka Punchnama series and Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety) who turns romantic for the first time with Imtiaz’s next. “I’m fortunate to have started my career with Luv Ranjan sir. I’ve also worked with Laxman Utekar and Mudassar Aziz. It’s been a journey of learning different things from different people,” he shares, adding, “Imtiaz sir is a special filmmaker; he changed my thought process as an actor.”
Imtiaz’s last outing, the SRK and Anushka Sharma-starrer Jab Harry Met Sejal, tanked at the box office. When asked if that made him do a double take before signing Love Aaj Kal, Kartik says that the thought never crossed his mind. “He doesn’t make films for the box-office. As a long-time Imtiaz fan, I want to work with him again and again. He is a passionate story-teller and devoid of filters,” the actor asserts.
The duo’s Valentine’s Day release is set in two eras—1990 and 2020—with Kartik playing Raghu and Veer respectively. To prep for the ’90s turn, he watched films like Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, Hum Aapke Hain Koun and Maine Pyar Kiya. “In fact, my introduction scene is set to Salman (Khan) sir’s song from Maine Pyar Kiya. I also revisited a lot of Shah Rukh (Khan) sir’s films,” Kartik reveals.
To get the physicality right, the actor underwent body language training. “The challenge was to break the off-camera rhythm of my body. We worked on everything, from the way Raghu blinks, to the way he smiles, talks and walks,” he says.
Calling it a significant film in his career, Kartik says, “This is the first time that I am exploring an intense character. It shows versatility. I’m a romantic at heart, so the journey towards bagging a film like this was great.” Buzz is, he and Imtiaz are in talks for another film that pairs him with Deepika Padukone. “That’s something you should ask him,” Kartik smiles. Next up, there’s the sequel to Akshay Kumar’s 2007 horror-comedy, Bhool Bhulaiyaa. Kartik confirms that he will resume work on it by the month-end. “It’s a new film for me. No one can fill those (Akshay’s) shoes. I hope to live up to expectations,” he adds.
The success of Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety (2018), changed the course of Kartik’s career. He followed it up with Luka Chuppi and Pati Patni Aur Woh, which made him a bankable actor. “Hopefully, it will continue with Love Aaj Kal,” he smiles, adding, “I wanted an opportunity to showcase my talent and it was after Sonu that I started getting scripts to choose from. Now, producers are confident that I can carry a film on my shoulders. I believe I am on the right path and I am choosing scripts that the audience wants to see.”
He goes on to reveal that till last year, he wasn’t in a position to choose scripts. “I was giving auditions even after the success of Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2. I wouldn’t even find out who was the director I was auditioning for. After Sonu and Luka Chuppi, I have started getting a lot of offers. I believe, there is still some time to evolve,” he avers, adding that now, he wants to do an action film, a thriller and play a negative role.
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