From anchoring on radio and actuality TV to changing into one in every of India’s most unconventional main 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 extra, the Nationwide Award-winning actor, singer, and poet has persistently chosen scripts that problem the norm, be it tackling taboos round masculinity, caste, sexuality, or social stigma. “I’m continually looking out for characters who’re weak, actual, and flawed, who rise as much as do one thing extraordinary,” stated Khurrana.
In an unique interview with the indianexpress.com forward of World Atmosphere Day 2025, Khurrana opens up in regards to the instincts that drive his storytelling, the values formed by his middle-class upbringing, and the way sustainable residing, each on and off display, guides his on a regular basis selections. Edited excerpts beneath:
Q. From VJ and radio to Nationwide Award-winning actor, should you needed to sum up that journey in a single phrase, what wouldn’t it be, and why?
Ayushmann Khurrana: Evolution. Each part has formed me. It taught me to take dangers – half of my most profitable movies had been with debutant administrators. I really like what I do, and I’m grateful for the alternatives. Every new venture brings contemporary vitality. I hunt down characters who’re flawed, weak, and but handle to do one thing significant. My selections may not match the traditional picture of a Bollywood star, however they resonate with the viewers. My journey has been that of a disruptor
Q2. Your roles have pushed boundaries. What guides your storytelling selections — intuition, private philosophy, or a little bit of each?
Ayushmann Khurrana: It’s undoubtedly a mixture; intuition leads the way in which. I’m drawn to scripts that unsettle me and push me out of my consolation zone. My philosophy is straightforward: I need to inform tales that matter, that replicate society’s blind spots, and begin related conversations. So sure, intuition brings me to the door, however my beliefs guarantee I stroll by means of it each time.
Q3. Has aware residing formed the way you strategy meals, from indulgence to one thing extra intentional?
Ayushmann Khurrana: Completely. I’ve shifted from consuming only for style to consuming for well-being. I nonetheless relish my candy dishes, like a scoop of kulfi, however I make room for these treats moderately than having them by default. Most meals now centre round complete grains, contemporary seasonal produce, and easy home-cooked recipes. Aware consuming for me means tasting every chew, checking in with my physique’s wants, and selecting substances that gas each physique and soul.
This fall. Sustainability is changing into central to how we dwell. Have you ever made any acutely aware adjustments – at house, in your wardrobe, or day by day habits – that replicate this shift?
Ayushmann Khurrana: Positively. Quite a lot of these values had been instilled in me early on. Rising up in a middle-class family taught me to respect sources: by no means waste meals, water, or electrical energy. These classes grew to become a mindset, a lifestyle, and helped in understanding the impression of our actions on the planet. Being related to Signature Packaged Consuming Water has solely deepened that dedication, and their ‘One With Nature’ philosophy really strikes a chord with me.
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At this time, I make small however constant efforts – waste segregation, conserving water, switching off lights and gadgets not in use. These could appear minor, however collectively, they kind the muse of a more healthy planet. I imagine that once we dwell with intention and honour the sources round us, we nurture it for generations to return.
Q5. In case you might encourage your viewers to undertake one acutely aware behavior, what wouldn’t it be, and why?
Keep away from single-use objects, whether or not they’re tissues, paper plates, or disposable make-up wipes, Ayushmann advised. (PR Handout)
Ayushmann Khurrana: Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for me. I imagine in making aware selections that profit the surroundings and, by extension, elevate the standard of our day by day lives. I’d say begin your day with a 10-minute digital detox. No telephones, no screens—simply reconnect with your self. Additionally, keep away from single-use objects, whether or not it’s tissues, paper plates, or disposable make-up wipes. These small adjustments are straightforward to undertake and might have a big effect on the planet.
Q. With such a packed schedule, what helps you handle stress? Are there rituals that maintain you mentally grounded?
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Ayushmann Khurrana: There are just a few non-negotiables for me: I begin the day with yoga and meditation, after which plug into music or poetry. I barely scroll on my cellphone as a “break” – that’s simply extra noise. As an alternative, I stroll barefoot on the grass, do easy stretches, or typically sit quietly with a glass of water and watch the sundown. These tiny rituals reset my headspace.
Q. What’s one thing you imagine in the present day that the youthful you’ll’ve by no means anticipated however can be pleased with?
Ayushmann Khurrana: I’ve been silently manifesting the life and profession I’ve in the present day. I feel the youthful me dreamt large, even when he didn’t know the way it will all unfold. What he didn’t count on was the braveness I’d discover to take dangers and embrace failure. As an actor, I consciously selected to do movies not set in formulation. Each movie I stated sure to got here from a spot of conviction, each from the makers and me. The themes weren’t solely promising but in addition had the potential to be thought-provoking round essential societal points which can be normally not addressed. That these tales resonated with audiences is one thing my youthful self can be very pleased with.