Why Kartik wanted to get typecast early in his career
What's the story
Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan has revealed that he welcomed typecasting when he was starting his career. Speaking at the Red Sea Film Festival in Saudi Arabia, he said being selected for similar roles felt better than not getting any offers. "I wanted to be typecast," he admitted with a laugh. "I just wanted people to watch the film and love it."
Career-defining decision
Aaryan's reluctance to join 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2' franchise
Aaryan also spoke about his initial hesitation to join the Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 franchise, a blockbuster horror-comedy sequel that established him as one of India's biggest commercial stars. He was initially reluctant because the offer came without a complete script, and it meant entering a franchise he wasn't originally part of. However, producer Bhushan Kumar later convinced him to reconsider this decision, which turned out to be career-defining. "These films really changed my life," he said.
Pandemic project
Aaryan's experience filming 'Dhamaka' during COVID-19 pandemic
Aaryan also spoke about his experience filming Dhamaka, a single-location thriller about a journalist who turns threatening calls into an opportunity for a comeback. The film was shot during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in an isolated hotel over roughly 10 days. Despite the challenges, Aaryan found it to be a reminder of why "adaptability and faith" in a director's vision are essential, as per Variety.
Personal growth
Aaryan's journey to success and self-belief
Aaryan also addressed the "overnight success" label that followed his 2018 hit Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, which he credited as his "true breakthrough." He argued that this phrase erases years of effort. "That night came after seven years," he said, describing a long stretch of auditions, rejections, and slow progress. He emphasized his journey was defined by conviction rather than luck and credited passion, patience, and manifestation for his success.
Film philosophy
'I'm proud to be that outsider'
Now firmly established as a commercial lead in Bollywood, Aaryan said, "I'm proud to be that outsider who carved his own audience." His choices begin with the script, which he calls "the most important pillar of any film." Aaryan also emphasized the challenge of balancing accessibility with emotional depth in films. He closed the conversation by pushing back on the idea of legacy altogether, saying, "This script isn't completed yet. It's still being written."