Ayushmann Khurrana, the Indian actor known for his bold and taboo-breaking roles, has seemingly moved on from his signature style. In a recent interview, Khurrana revealed his shift towards more family-friendly and relatable films, marking a significant change in his career trajectory. This transition is not just a personal choice but also a strategic move in the post-pandemic film industry.
A New Direction
Khurrana, who rose to fame with movies like 'Vicky Donor' and 'Shubh Mangal Saavdhan', where he tackled sensitive topics like sperm donation and erectile dysfunction, now believes that these subjects have been explored to their limits. He stated, 'I think I've covered all the taboo topics there are to cover. It's time to move on and explore different avenues.' This shift is evident in his recent projects, which have been more focused on relatable themes.
The Impact of the Pandemic
The actor's decision to pivot towards family-friendly films is not coincidental. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered the film industry, with a noticeable shift towards content that could appeal to a broader audience. Khurrana acknowledged this change, saying, 'The pandemic changed the game. After OTT became a major player, I started looking for films that could cater to a wider audience, not just breaking taboos but also focusing on relatable subjects.'
Box Office Reality
Khurrana's recent releases, such as 'Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui' and 'Doctor G', did not perform as well at the box office as he had hoped. This reality further solidified his decision to move away from his previous style. He noted, 'The post-pandemic box office landscape is different. The films I did earlier had a massive audience response, but now, I'm more inclined towards films that can be enjoyed by the whole family.'
Future Projects
Despite this shift, Khurrana's latest release, 'Pati Patni Aur Woh 2', which opened to an average day at the box office, features a mix of humor and relatable themes. His upcoming projects, 'Yeh Prem Mol Liya' and 'Udta Teer', are also expected to follow a similar path. This strategic move could be a calculated risk, as it caters to a broader audience while still allowing Khurrana to showcase his versatility as an actor.
Personal Perspective
In my opinion, Khurrana's decision to move away from taboo subjects is a natural evolution in his career. The pandemic has indeed reshaped the industry, and his choice to focus on family-friendly films is a smart move. While it may not appeal to his previous fan base, it opens up new opportunities and a wider audience. This shift also highlights the actor's willingness to adapt and evolve, which is a quality that will undoubtedly benefit his long-term career.