Written In The Stars

FROM SMALL-TOWN DREAMER TO BOLLYWOOD’S BRIGHTEST, KARTIK AARYAN TELLS SHILPA DUBEY THAT SUCCESS COMES TO THOSE WHO DARE

He was around 14 or 15 when he stood atop Gwalior's ancient fort, gazing out over the sprawling city. The view was stunning, each flickering glow of light a testament to the beauty of life below. Yet, Kartik Tiwari, then a ninth grader, felt a yearning that urged him towards a larger dream, one that burned brighter than what lay in front of him. It's not enough, he must have thought at that moment. Yes, he was just another shy teenager, from a small town in the heartland of the country, but his vision stretched far beyond the horizon his eyes beheld. Today, as Kartik Aaryan, he is the proud holder of a filmography that boasts blockbuster hits and award-winning characters. He's also very thankful for everything he has achieved and, more importantly, where he comes from. "I come from a small town. When an outsider like me makes it big, he is eternally thankful to every person who gave him even the tiniest support in every step towards his success," Kartik shares. "Small town or big city, when one's dreams are so big, with no threads to pull, one remains grateful and surprised for every good opportunity that comes their way."

His conviction leaves no room for doubt when you see him in action. Being in front of a camera - his lifelong dream-defines a lot of who he is right now, but Kartik prefers not to be confined by any one role or a monologue. "Today, I'm known by my characters, be it Sonu (Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety), Guddu (Luka Chuppi), Chintu Tyagi (Pati Patni Aur Woh) or Rooh Baba (the Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise)," he reveals proudly. "People have loved me in all my avatars and that's something every actor lives for." But, at home, away from the spotlight, Kartik is simply 'Koki' - a nickname lovingly given by his family. "When I'm not working, I'm spending time with my family, binge-watching shows, and playing with my dog Katori. That's what keeps me sane," he adds with a smile.