From ‘Vicky Donor’ to ‘Article 15’: Films that prove why 'Thama' actor Ayushmann Khurrana is Bollywood’s king of content

Ayushmann Khurrana's first challenging role as a sperm donor in 'Vicky Donor' was both brave and ahead of its time when it dealt with a subject that was not ordinary. As a film, it handled a sensitive topic with humor and tenderness, and the film was both critically and commercially successful; Ayushmann made a statement on the industry immediately, as an actor who is willing to address social taboos.

Ayushmann Khurrana partnered with Bhumi in 'Dum Laga Ke Haisha', a story about a couple's insecurities and societal pressures. The film painted a genuinely heartwarming depiction of loving someone and accepting one's self internally and externally. The film emotionally connected with the audience, proving one of Ayushmann's most relatable and downright memorable performances during the early part of his career.

'Bala' explored an array of social issues, such as racism and issues within marriage, with Ayushmann leading the film alongside Yami Gautam and Bhumi Pednekar. The film used a mix of comedy and social discussion, capturing the affection of the audience. Ayushmann’s performance as a young man who experiences the insecurities of a balding scalp was especially praised.

This movie examined the unanticipated topic of parents’ sexuality and pregnancy during the late stage of life. Ayushmann managed to generate warmth and comedic timbre to a storyline that could have been especially socially sensitive; therefore, it became a huge financial success. The film established itself as refreshing due to its concept and sensitive execution and established Ayushmann reputation as an actor with a talent for socially relevant, content-based roles.

Ayushmann joined forces once again with Bhumi Pednekar, which explored topics related to erectile dysfunction through comedy, all the while subtly elicit genuine emotion regarding sensitive subject matter. The subject matter pushed the envelope surrounding taboos while being funny, and Ayushmann was authentic enough and personal enough in his performance to be likable yet weighted enough to make it meaningful which led to Ayushmann becoming a leading man who is a bankable actor with unique and serious, relevant, socially and politically engaged roles.

In 'Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan', Ayushmann took on the role of a character in a same sex marriage striving to be accepted by the world and to find love. This film combined humor with a social cause, resonating with its audiences, and becoming a box office success to further validate that Ayushman can provide mass entertainment, while still being socially responsible, and confirms that he is one of the most versatile actors in Bollywood.

Similarly, in the movie Article 15, inspired by true events, Ayushmann portrayed the character Ayan, an officer involved in caste discrimination in India. The movie was directed by Anubhav Sinha, and had similar themes of serious societal issues, intensity, and realism. Article 15 also received moderate commercial success, but Khurana's performance was memorable; the message of this movie was significant to critics and audiences, who singled it out for its impact.