Ayushmann Khurrana sets the record straight about why he opted out of Kunal Kohli's next film

Ever since Ayushmann Khurrana made an exit from Kunal Kohli's upcoming project, tongues have not stopped wagging in the industry. There was divided opinion on the one-film-old actor's decision to leave the film for the apparent want of an A-list heroine. However, the actor appears calm and confident as he clarifies his stand on the issue...

Is it true you exited the film because there was no A-list heroine?
See, I am nobody to comment on who's an A-lister and who's not. We live in times where either a superstar or a super script works. Since I am not the former I would rather go with the latter. It's unfair how things have been blown out of proportion.

I will continue to respect Kunal but at the same time, I don't think it's wrong to have aspirations. Somehow things didn't work out mainly due to the promotional work for my film with Rohan Sippy.

Are you very script conscious?
Yes, I am. I read every script thrice to understand it completely. I also show it to my wife, friends and people who I feel can give me a good perspective. I also refer it to some seniors. And of course, there's intuition.


Does John Abraham mentor you?
(Laughs) No, John's a great friend and a mentor, but he's too busy right now with his own films. Personally, I am clear about what I want to do, and what I don't want to do!

Are you happy the way your career is going?
We are in the golden era of Indian cinema and I am glad to be here. At the same time, I am taking baby steps towards learning the intricacies of Bollywood. I am a fast learner, and hope to understand things soon. But I am glad that people perceive me in a clean and positive manner.


You have been working non-stop...
Rohan's film has shaped up beautifully. We have finished recording a few songs for it. He is such a thorough professional. In fact, we completed the film in around 30 days. I have already started the groundwork for Shoojit Sircar's film that goes on floors next year. I spent a lot of time in Agra understanding the local dialects of the tourist guides, as I play one in the film.