Entertainment

IIE DIGITAL DESK  :  Vicky Kaushal, one of Bollywood's most celebrated actors today, has had a long and challenging journey to success. Known for his incredible versatility and powerful performances, Kaushal is now one of the most sought-after stars in the film industry. However, his path to stardom wasn’t always easy. In a recent interview, Vicky opened up about his early struggles in Bollywood, revealing that his entry into the industry was fraught with challenges, rejections, and a constant need to prove himself.

Vicky Kaushal hails from a family with no prior connection to the film industry. His father, Sham Kaushal, is a renowned action director, but Vicky didn’t have the typical Bollywood upbringing that many of his contemporaries did. He completed his engineering degree before deciding to pursue his passion for acting. After joining the Kishore Namit Kapoor Acting Institute, Kaushal soon realized that breaking into Bollywood would be no easy feat.

In the early days, Vicky faced numerous setbacks, including constant rejection. He would often find himself auditioning for roles in ads and small films, sometimes asking for tiny roles that paid him meager amounts. Reflecting on this period, Vicky revealed that he would request for roles that paid as little as ₹200-₹300, a far cry from the success and recognition he would later achieve. Despite the hardships, Vicky’s determination never wavered, and he continued to push forward, hoping that his big break would come soon.

The journey to recognition in Bollywood was not just about auditions and rejections for Vicky; it was also about battling his inner demons. He shared that in his early years, he struggled with self-confidence and often dealt with feelings of inadequacy. Vicky even mentioned that he used to suffer from anxiety and would sometimes feel insecure about his appearance, especially during his teenage years. His lack of a typical “hero” look, especially in the beginning, made him feel like an outsider in an industry that often favors traditional good looks.

Yet, his passion for acting kept him going. Vicky knew that to succeed in Bollywood, he needed to focus on his craft rather than his external challenges. This mindset helped him navigate the tumultuous landscape of Bollywood, where success is often dependent on both luck and timing. In one interview, he recalled that despite the odds, he never gave up, always believing that one day his perseverance would pay off.

Vicky Kaushal’s breakthrough came with the critically acclaimed film Masaan (2015), directed by Neeraj Ghaywan. This film was a turning point in his career, as it showcased his raw talent and depth as an actor. Vicky’s portrayal of Deepak Kumar, a young man from Varanasi struggling with the weight of his past, earned him significant praise. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and was lauded for its sensitive treatment of complex themes. Vicky's nuanced performance earned him several accolades, including the IIFA Award for Best Male Debut.

Masaan marked the beginning of Vicky’s journey into mainstream Bollywood, opening doors to numerous opportunities. He went on to star in films like Raazi (2018), Sanju (2018), Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019), and Sardar Udham (2021), all of which solidified his position as one of the top actors in the industry.

Vicky’s rise to fame wasn’t without its ups and downs. Even as he garnered fame with his breakthrough performances, he continued to face the challenges of working in an industry that can sometimes be fickle and unpredictable. However, Vicky’s dedication to his craft and his willingness to take on diverse roles have helped him build a successful career, one film at a time.

Today, Vicky Kaushal is regarded as one of Bollywood's finest actors, known for his diverse roles and commitment to delivering authentic performances. His ability to seamlessly transition between different genres—from intense dramas like Uri to light-hearted romantic comedies like Laxmi—has made him a fan favorite and a critical darling.Vicky Kaushal’s journey from a struggling actor to a Bollywood superstar is a testament to the power of hard work, resilience, and the belief that perseverance pays off. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors and anyone facing obstacles in their path. Vicky’s success shows that with dedication, self-belief, and a relentless pursuit of one's goals, dreams can indeed come true in the competitive world of Bollywood.