For more than three decades, Prem has been synonymous with Salman Khan. Starting from Maine Pyar Kiya to Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!, Hum Saath Saath Hain and Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, the name Prem came to represent Sooraj Barjatya’s vision of the perfect Indian hero – who was earnest, loving, and family-rooted.
Now, that iconic mantle is being passed on to Ayushmann Khurrana, who will play Prem in Sooraj Barjatya’s next big family entertainer, which he calls a ‘quintessential’ family movie.
In an exclusive conversation with Moneycontrol, Ayushmann Khurranna admits that stepping into a role that has been immortalised by superstar Salman Khan is both intimidating and exciting.
Ayushmann prepares to bring Prem back to the big screen not as a replica but as a reimagined ideal man for a new generation and he agrees that expectations are sky-high.
We asked him so we will see you as The Prem, to which he replies: “Yes, big shoes to fill. But I’m glad that, you know, we met somewhere in the middle, Sooraj sir and I, because he’s come really towards my genre, and I’ve got to do it since. So that’ll be a good marriage.”
The actor, who is currently riding high on the success of horror comedy Thamma, says this collaboration is a dream come true.
“It’s like a typical quintessential family entertainer. I’m excited for it because Sooraj sir represents an era of cinema that’s deeply rooted in Indian culture and relationships. Yet, the story we’re doing together has a contemporary layer to it, which makes it very exciting,” he said.
Sooraj Barjatya’s film comes at a time when Ayushmann is at the peak of his career, having delivered five Rs 100 crore hits.
With Thamma’s success giving him newfound confidence, he says he’s ready to experiment with diverse genres, from quirky comedies to family dramas.
“My philosophy is that I have to mix different genres. I’m a content-first person, so whatever resonates with me, I consume a script like an audience member. I’ve been very fortunate to work with great writers and amazing directors — the universe has been kind to me.”
The actor is also juggling an interesting slate of upcoming projects.
“After Thamma, I have another festival release. It’s a Holi release called Pati Patni Aur Who 2. It’s a very interesting film, followed by a Sikhya-Dharma collaboration, which is a quirky comedy. And then, next year will be Sooraj Barjatya’s film.”
With Sooraj Barjatya’s film, Ayushmann is set to add another feather to his cap, one that merges his love for grounded storytelling with the grandeur of traditional Indian cinema.
If Thamma proved his box office clout, Prem could redefine Ayushmann Khurrana’s range from a rule-breaking performer to the face of India’s most beloved cinematic family.