Vicky Kaushal, Bollywood’s undeniable “green flag,” is making waves not only for his acting prowess but also for his grounded charm and authenticity, qualities that have endeared him to fans and industry insiders alike. Known for roles that range from intense to heartfelt, Kaushal recently took Bazaar India on a journey through his typical day, offering insights into his childhood, stardom, and self-discovery.
Born and raised in Mumbai’s Andheri West, Kaushal’s life began in a close-knit, modest community. “Growing up, everyone knew each other; we were like one big family,” Kaushal recalls, speaking of his childhood apartment, where he first discovered a love for dance and performance. His early years, filled with sports, dance, and community spirit, fostered a creative spark that later defined his acting career. Though Kaushal initially pursued engineering, hoping to fulfill his father’s vision of a stable career, a fateful industrial visit shattered his corporate dreams. “I couldn’t see myself in a cubicle; I knew I would be unhappy,” he shares. This moment led him to reassess his passion, eventually pushing him toward acting—a path that he says saved him from the “Monday blues” and transformed his life.
Kaushal’s ascent in Bollywood has been remarkable, characterized by roles that test his versatility and challenge him as an actor. His portfolio includes critically acclaimed films like Masaan, Raazi, Sardar Udham, and his recent portrayal of Sam Manekshaw in Sam Bahadur. Despite his fame, he is refreshingly humble about his success, modestly remarking, “I don’t consider myself a star yet. To me, a star is someone whose movies you watch without a second thought. I haven’t earned that title yet.”
On set, Kaushal is known for his ability to put people at ease—a trait that he says comes naturally. “I believe in karma and treating people kindly. If I’ve made someone smile by the end of the day, that’s more meaningful to me than any accolade,” he says. His kindness isn’t just talk. Recently, after a fashion show, Kaushal returned to take a photo with a fan who had waited patiently. “When you’re knocking on doors for auditions, you dream about moments like this,” he explains, acknowledging how these interactions are now a cherished part of his journey.
More Read
Kaushal’s dedication to his craft is evident in the diversity of his roles. “I’ve never wanted to limit myself. Each role is a chance to grow and push boundaries,” he says. Initially, his career offered few choices; instead, Kaushal seized whatever came his way, letting the roles define him rather than the other way around. His experience as an assistant director on Gangs of Wasseypur was instrumental, watching talents like Manoj Bajpayee and Pankaj Tripathi shape their characters left him inspired. “Seeing them transform was magical, and I’ve always wanted to bring that level of depth to my performances.”
Beyond cinema, Kaushal’s charisma extends to fashion, though he admits he’s still figuring out his style. “I’m so clueless about fashion!” he laughs. But his presence on the runway, particularly his celebrated walk at Fashion Week, suggests otherwise. “When I feel comfortable in what I wear, my confidence changes, and that affects everything else.” Recently, Kaushal’s confidence in promoting Punjabi music—a genre close to his heart—has also come into focus. “Punjabi music has always been on the verge of going global. I’ve loved it since childhood, and I hope to support emerging artists who bring something unique to the table.”
Kaushal’s journey hasn’t been without its personal challenges. He has spoken openly about his struggles with anxiety, offering advice for creatives facing similar battles: “Acknowledge your anxiety rather than indulging in it. A senior actor once told me to make anxiety my friend, and that’s helped me immensely.” Kaushal is driven by his love for creative challenges, channeling his energy into meaningful projects rather than getting weighed down by stress. With curiosity piqued, he’s now considering exploring film direction, drawn by the evolving landscape of Indian cinema. “We’re in an exciting phase. Authentic narratives are thriving, and new voices are gaining power. It’s thrilling to be part of this change.”
Kaushal’s fans admire his down-to-earth attitude as much as his on-screen talent. When asked about who Vicky Kaushal is behind the scenes, he replies simply, “I’m just like anyone else, full of dreams and hopes.” From a young boy performing at Republic Day events to Bollywood’s “green flag,” Kaushal’s journey is one of resilience, humility, and a genuine love for the craft that’s made him one of the industry’s most cherished stars.
