Bollywood star Ayushmann Khurrana hopes for success”Tamma“, his first holiday release, which crossed the INR 100 crore ($11.1 million) mark at the box office, becoming his fifth film to reach the milestone and his biggest opening to date. The film is the latest entry in Maddock Films'The universe of horror comedy.
The actor, long known as an advocate of realistic, everyday cinema, is now focusing on wholesome family entertainment with four upcoming projects.
“Post-pandemic, the structure of plays has changed and in this scenario, this success seems quite encouraging,” says Khurrana. Diversity. “My heart is full of gratitude for the success of both Dreamgirls 2 and Thamma. I am thrilled to enter 2026 with two back-to-back Rs 100 crore hits.”
Its 2026 lineup will be headlined by Pati Patni Aur Wo Do, which Khurrana describes as “a pure family comedy and there is always a place for pure family comedies.” The film takes inspiration from the 1978 hit starring Sanjeev Kumar and is backed by Juno Chopra-led BR Chopra Films.
Khurrana is particularly enthusiastic about his collaboration with director Sooraj Barjatya, known for his family-friendly films. “For his height, he is a very simple person, very modest and at the same time hardworking,” says the actor. “What inspires me most about him is that he is a true film student and works like a nerd. I am a true fan of such family entertainers, he is a master of this genre and this genre is really missing. Nobody does it better than Sooraj sir.”
Barjatya's project represents a departure from Khurrana's typical roles. “What excites me most about his film is that the hero is not just one character, the whole family is central to his family entertainers,” he explains. “I usually like to play characters who are flawed and develop over time, but this film is different in that it celebrates the healthy, perfect family as the hero.”
Khurrana will also begin shooting for an untitled film. Yash Raj Films-Posham Pa Project followed by the release of a spy comedy co-produced by Dharma Productions and Sikhya Entertainment in early 2026.
The actor, known for his track record as a producer, emphasizes his collaborative approach. “When I take on a project and start shooting, I try to keep it simple, even with my surroundings,” says Khurrana. “For me, it's not just about the scripts I choose, but also the type of professional I am. I pride myself on being a co-creator first and foremost, and not someone who is solely focused on being seen as the protagonist.”
Khurrana has established himself as a budding franchisee with successful series including Dream Girl, Shubh Mangal Saavdhan and Badhaay Ho.
“Trust in its predecessor is a plus that a franchise film has,” he notes. “Audiences have become selective when it comes to watching a new film. So the priority is always to create a top-notch product, and it really helps when you have a successful franchise backing it.”
The actor has also expressed interest in exploring Andhadhun 2 in the future.
