In an intimate conversation with who seems to be everyone's favourite in Bollywood these days, Kartik Aaryan reveals some personal details, his upcoming projects and more...

The man with the million-dollar smile, Kartik Aaryan has taken Bollywood by storm. With a string of blockbuster hits, this Bollywood hunk has created a unique space for himself in the industry. From delivering power-packed performances to being a complete boy-next-door, Kartik Aaryan has truly become the king of all trades. And guess what, we got a chance to catch up with him and delve deeper into his key to success.

Masala: Sajid Nadiadwala’s Satyaprem Ki Katha, Anurag Basu’s Aashiqui 3 and Kabir Khan’s next… you seem to be the blue-eyed choice of directors. What could be the key reasons?

Kartik Aaryan: I’m flattered that people think I’m the blue-eyed choice but honestly I feel extremely lucky to be working with some incredible directors and on films that belong to different genres. Honestly, I don’t know what the key factor is, but what I’m practicing is my policy of hard work and self-belief. I try to explore as much new stuff as I can because I feel like that not only surprises audiences each time but also allows filmmakers to see you in a different light. And I just give it my best shot and leave the rest for the audience to decide. It feels amazing to come from a place where I gave auditions nonstop for that one break, to now working with some of the biggest makers, it feels surreal and I hope I’m able to deliver everything that they envision.

Masala: Satyaprem Ki Katha looks like a soulful mysterious love story. Can you tell us more about it?

Kartik Aaryan: It’s a very precious film in my career. Right from the first narration I got, until now – my attachment has been 100% to this story. Surprisingly, not just me everyone in the team has been extremely attached to Sattu and Katha’s story. Sattu is an adorable character, and I guarantee one can easily fall in love with Sattu. After watching the film, you will feel like “hum sabki life mein ek Sattu zarur hona chahiye”. I am proud to be a part of this film. It’s going to be an emotional roller coaster ride for the audience.

Masala: Your chemistry with all your co-stars are always talked about. What’s the special secret?

Kartik Aaryan: I don’t know (Laughs). I just try to be myself and true to the character which I portray on screen. Also, I would like to give credit to all my co-stars who make our pairing look believable on the big screen. Maybe it has also to do with my camaraderie with them in real life. Working for hours non-stop and for months at stretch, the friendship and the camaraderie built, translates on the big screen.

Masala: What do you think has been your best film 1) as an actor 2) commercially?

Kartik Aaryan: I’ve loved being part of every single film I’ve done and I’m proud of them. Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 has been a game changer for me as a performer and as a commercial success too. The kind of success BB2 saw especially post the pandemic, really took us all by surprise and it was so overwhelming to see the masses thronging the theatres to watch the film repeatedly. I’m doing multiple films right now but the kind of craze and the way people are waiting for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, is crazy. I frequently keep getting asked on social media about its next instalment or kids walking up to me and asking me to say a line from the film or dance like Rooh Baba. All this excitement among moviegoers and children, makes me very happy and fortunate to be a part of the film.

Masala: You have a large fan following, especially among the female youth. Where do you think your sex appeal lies?

Kartik Aaryan: I think, it’s my hair (Laughs). To be honest, everyone’s sex-appeal definition is different. If someone asks me what is sex-appeal, I would say it’s someone’s personality and confidence. So I guess, some people might be liking my this boy-next-door personality, which I get hailing from a small-town and making a place for myself in this big city. Some might say it’s my smile, because I usually get complimented for that. And yes, I repeat it again and this time with honesty – a lot of girls love my hair and I have had fans walking up to me and asking me – “Can I touch your hair?” and I find it very cute!

Masala: Can you tell us about any upcoming projects you have in the pipeline for 2023?

Kartik Aaryan: I have Satyaprem Ki Katha now, it’s a romantic film which is being produced by Sajid (Nadiadwala) sir and Namah Pictures and it’s directed by national award-winning Sameer Vidwans. Next I will soon start shooting for Kabir Khan Sir’s next, which is something I’m really excited about. There is a love story with Anurag Basu sir. And then there is Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. I am just really excited to work on these and show them to the audiences.

Masala: What do you like to do in your free time away from shooting?

Kartik Aaryan: I like spending time with my friends, family, and Katori (his pet dog) in my free time. Considering the profession, it can get very difficult to see them very often sometimes so I grab every opportunity I get. I also love to travel and discover new places, so that’s another thing I do whenever there is an open window. Recently I went for a solo trip to Europe.

Masala: What were some of your fears when you entered the entertainment industry?

Kartik Aaryan: I think as an actor trying to get into the industry you always worry about getting good quality work. About having the choice to pick the kind of films you want to do. So there was always the fear of being bracketed into a certain kind of roles but I feel really blessed that I’m now in a place where the audience have accepted me and showered love on me every time I have tried something new.

Masala: In an industry where stakes run high, is true love difficult to find?

Kartik Aaryan: I think true love is difficult to find no matter which industry or field you are from. But personally speaking, I am just highly focused on my work right now, but I am a die-hard romantic so I always believe it can come to you no matter the circumstances, if it’s meant to be.

Masala: Fame is addictive. Do you fear losing it?

Kartik Aaryan: Fame is temporary. I came from nothing, and I have seen my share of lows, I have family and friends who keep me grounded so I try to not let success go to my head or failure to my heart. As I said fame is temporary but talent is permanent. Even if I lose everything in life, I have that confidence that I’ll get everything back, because only focus on my work and make it better… so for me my work and confidence is my addiction. Rest everything just follows.

Masala: Lastly, what message would you like to give to young aspiring actors in the industry?

Kartik Aaryan: I would recommend to have self-belief, stay focused and just work hard. Do your bit, and be ready for any opportunity.