Ayushmann Recalls Karan Johar’s Early Rejection
Ayushmann Khurrana has revisited an early experience from his journey into Bollywood, recalling how an attempt to reach filmmaker Karan Johar in 2007 ended in disappointment. Before establishing himself as an actor, Khurrana worked as a radio jockey and looked for opportunities to enter the film industry.
During an awards ceremony, Khurrana met Johar, whom he had previously interviewed as one of his early celebrity guests. Hoping to discuss his acting ambitions, he asked the filmmaker for his contact number. Khurrana later called the landline number he received, only to be told by the person who answered that the production house did not audition outsiders or newcomers.
The actor shared the anecdote while appearing on the television chat show Koffee With Karan. Johar offered a different perspective during their conversation, suggesting that providing his number had been a positive gesture because he may have recognized Khurrana’s potential. Khurrana explained that the exchange had not helped him connect with the filmmaker directly. He also reflected on how being a radio jockey had allowed him to speak more freely, whereas public comments later required greater caution.
Meanwhile, Khurrana’s latest film, Udta Teer, a spy comedy featuring Sara Ali Khan, has reported encouraging box-office figures. According to figures cited by Sacnilk, the film collected ₹8.10 crore in net domestic earnings on its third Sunday, up from ₹7.25 crore on Saturday—a reported increase of 11.7%. Sunday’s screenings took place across 6,020 shows in India.
The film’s reported worldwide gross collection reached ₹27.58 crore. The figures reflect its opening-weekend performance as the movie continues its theatrical run.
Khurrana’s recollection offers a glimpse into the uncertain beginnings of an acting career that eventually brought him recognition in Hindi cinema.
