Kartik Aaryan on 2025 Success: “Winning Best Actor for Both Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 and Chandu Champion Feels Surreal”

For Kartik Aaryan, 2025 has been a year to remember. Between blockbuster releases and award-winning performances, the actor has added two prestigious Best Actor trophies to his collection—an IIFA for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 and a Filmfare for Chandu Champion. In an exclusive chat, Kartik opened up about his journey, his love for storytelling, and the personal joys that came alongside his cinematic triumphs.

Reflecting on Chandu Champion, Kartik explained, “I never considered it an experiment. The story of India’s first Paralympic gold medallist, Murlikant Petkar ji, struck me deeply. His courage, resilience, and determination are truly inspiring. Portraying such a real-life hero was a blessing, and I’ll always be grateful to Kabir sir and Sajid sir for trusting me with it. Winning the Filmfare Best Actor award is a validation not just for me, but for films that celebrate real human stories.”

Kartik also shared a lighter, personal side of life: his newest family addition, a pup named Chatori. “You could say she’s a reward for the Chandu Champion journey! She’s actually a gift from my mom and has already won everyone over at home. Katori, my other dog, is still warming up to her, but she’s protective in her own big-sister way. Our house feels so lively with both of them around.”

Turning to Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, which set the bar high for Diwali releases, Kartik said, “The love the audience gave was overwhelming. It felt like a festival inside the theatres. The film, along with another massive release, did over ₹800 crores worldwide. While the numbers are motivating, I see them more as a responsibility than pressure. For me, it’s always about the story and the connection with the audience. If that works, everything else follows.”

Looking ahead, Kartik spoke about his upcoming film Tu Meri Main Tera, releasing on New Year’s Eve. “Reuniting with Ananya Panday was a joy. The film is full of heart, fun, and festive energy. Our chemistry as Ray and Rumi is something I’m excited for the audience to see. Shooting it felt effortless and playful, which I think translates on screen.”

When asked if rom-coms are his “signature genre,” Kartik laughed, “Maybe it’s in my DNA. I enjoy these roles, and the audience seems to love them too. But I never want to limit myself—I’m always looking for stories that move me, no matter the genre.”

Kartik also revealed his hands-on approach to film marketing. “I’ve always had a bit of a businessman side. Marketing is as important as the shoot itself because storytelling doesn’t end on set. I like being involved in all aspects of a film. I’ve heard about the so-called ‘Kartik Aaryan template’—it’s really motivating and encouraging to see that level of trust from producers.”

With back-to-back successes, award-winning performances, and exciting projects lined up, Kartik Aaryan’s 2025 truly seems like a defining year in his career.