Ayush Mehra Talks Cannes, OTT And His Evolution As An Actor: ‘It’s An Exciting Time For…’ – News18

Ayush Mehra, a charismatic actor known for his memorable roles in Kacchey Limbu, Please Find Attached, and Call My Agent: Bollywood, has been making waves in the entertainment industry with his diverse performances and undeniable charm. While many recognize him as the relatable face of FilterCopy, Ayush’s versatility as an actor goes far beyond quick, witty web sketches. His journey, which began behind the camera as an Assistant Director on films like URI: The Surgical Strike, has taken him to new heights, including his red carpet debut at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in 2024, a milestone that marked his growing influence in the world of cinema.

But it’s not just the glitz and glamour that define Ayush Mehra. With collaborations alongside global icons like David Beckham and Indian superstar Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Ayush is carving out a unique space for himself in the Indian entertainment landscape. As the Indian OTT platform continues to evolve, Ayush’s ability to adapt and thrive in this ever-changing space showcases his talent and dedication to his craft. With a promising year behind him and even bigger projects on the horizon, he is fast becoming a key player in the industry—one whose career is marked by passion, persistence, and a constant push for excellence.

In an exclusive conversation with News18 Showsha, Ayush Mehra reflected on his journey from assistant director to on-screen star, his creative process, and how the OTT boom in India is reshaping storytelling. He opened up about the characters that have left a lasting impact on him, the challenges of being a versatile actor in a competitive space, and his vision for the future of Indian cinema. Ayush is not just an actor on the rise—he’s a storyteller at heart, using every role as a canvas to bring new voices and stories to life.

Here are the excerpts:

Q: You’ve mentioned that you always wanted to be an actor. What was your initial experience in the industry like, and how did you decide that acting was your true calling?

Ayush Mehra: I’ve always had a passion for acting, but there was definitely some uncertainty at the start. I needed to be sure if it was truly my calling or just an attraction to the glamour of it all. That’s why I decided to work as an assistant on three films, even before URI. I wanted to immerse myself in the filmmaking process and understand the industry from the inside out.

The experience taught me so much about the craft and all the different departments involved in creating a film. Even if I hadn’t ended up pursuing acting, I knew I loved the world of filmmaking itself. But my inclination was always towards acting. Those early days helped solidify my decision to follow this path, and I’m glad I took the time to ensure that I was fully committed.

Q: What has been your approach when choosing characters to portray? Do you have specific criteria that you look for in a role?

Ayush Mehra: I’m very selective when it comes to choosing roles. It’s a thought-out process that involves reading the script thoroughly, understanding the character’s journey, and assessing whether the story resonates with me. I tend to choose projects that I connect with on a personal level—stories that reflect some aspect of my life or something I’ve experienced.

I believe in continually evolving, so I try to take on roles that challenge me in different ways. Every new character allows me to explore various facets of my personality. It’s always nerve-wracking to step into a new role, but it’s also exciting because I get to bring new aspects of myself to life on screen. I always ask myself if it’s a story I would want to watch, and if the answer is yes, then I know others will likely feel the same.

Q: You’ve credited the web for giving you the opportunity to showcase your talent. How do you see the web evolving as a platform for storytelling, and what does it mean for actors like you?

Ayush Mehra: The web has been a game-changer, not just for me but for many actors. It has given us a space to tell stories that might not fit the traditional Bollywood mold but still resonate with audiences. The emergence of web platforms has introduced new voices—directors, writers, and producers—who are willing to take risks and create content that pushes boundaries.

I’m extremely grateful to the web because it has opened doors for artists who may not have had a chance to shine otherwise. It’s not just about commercial success; it’s about exploring new ideas and telling stories that matter. The web is constantly evolving, and I think it will continue to surprise us by offering more opportunities for diverse storytelling. It’s an exciting time to be an actor, as we get to be a part of this evolution.

Q: Mom & Co. was your first long-form project, and you’ve spoken about how personal it was for you. Can you tell us more about your decision to be a part of it?

Ayush Mehra: Mom & Co. holds a special place in my heart because it was something I did for my mom. She has always been one of the reasons I continue to pursue acting, and being able to give something back to her in the form of this project was very fulfilling. It was my first long-form show, and the decision to be a part of it was purely driven by love and a personal connection to the story.

I choose projects that resonate with me on a deeper level, and Mom & Co. felt like the perfect way to express my gratitude towards my mom. It’s important for me to pick stories that I believe in and that reflect what I’m going through in life. The script was powerful, and it was an opportunity to be a part of something meaningful. That’s what drew me to it.

Q: Your characters often come across as very relatable and lovable. What do you think makes your performances resonate so well with millennials and Gen Z audiences?

Ayush Mehra: I think it’s the authenticity that I try to bring to each character. I draw a lot from my own life experiences, which makes my performances feel real. I put a lot of myself into the roles I play, and that helps the audience forget that they’re watching a character; they believe that it’s real. I’m very grateful and humbled by the love I receive from the younger audience.

I try to play each role with as much honesty as possible, and I think people can see that effort. When the audience senses that the hard work is genuine, it resonates with them. It’s a blessing to have such a connection with millennials and Gen Z viewers, and I don’t take it for granted.

Q: You’ve been a part of various genres, from slice-of-life shows to intense dramas. How do you maintain versatility in your performances, and is it a conscious decision to keep switching between different types of roles?

Ayush Mehra: Yes, absolutely. It’s a conscious choice to keep my roles diverse. I want each character to feel different from the last, and that’s what excites me as an actor. It also helps me grow because I’m constantly challenging myself to adapt to different roles and genres. It would be boring to play the same type of character over and over again.

Every new project comes with its own set of challenges, and that’s what keeps me motivated. Whether it’s a light-hearted role or an emotionally heavy character, I approach each one with the same dedication. It’s all about constantly learning and trying new things, and that’s how I strive to maintain my versatility.

Q: You mentioned that a part of your personality goes into each character you play. Can you share an example of how you brought elements of your own life into one of your roles?

Ayush Mehra: Absolutely. Take Shaurya from Please Find Attached, for example. I’ve never worked in a corporate setting, but I related to Shaurya’s desire to maintain balance in life. He tries to stay cool under pressure, which is something I also strive for in my personal life. That was the intersection point between me and Shaurya, and I used that to bring a sense of authenticity to the role.

A lot also depends on the written material, and Please Find Attached had a beautifully written script. It made it easier for me to connect with the character and find ways to blend aspects of my own personality with what was on the page. It’s always a balance between what’s written and what I can bring to the character from my own experiences.

Q: Having worked across web series, films, and sketches, do you find any differences in the preparation process for different mediums?

Ayush Mehra: The level of effort remains the same across all mediums. The difference lies in the format and the time you have to develop the character. In web series, you have several episodes to dive deep into a character’s journey, whereas in films, you need to establish the character within a limited timeframe.

For Kacchey Limbu, for example, the preparation was more physical because it involved a lot of cricket. I practiced for 3-4 hours a day to get the cricket scenes right. On the other hand, Minus One was an emotionally heavy show, and the preparation involved more mental work. I had to put myself in a certain mindset to be able to perform intense scenes. The preparation might vary, but the dedication is always the same.

Q: You’ve worked with seasoned actors like Radhika Madan and Neelima Azeem. How did their presence on set influence your performance?

Ayush Mehra: Working with actors like Radhika and Neelima ma’am was an enriching experience. They’re both incredibly kind, supportive, and professional, which makes a huge difference for a younger actor like me. Radhika, despite being so experienced, never made me feel like a newcomer. She was always there to rehearse and was extremely down-to-earth.

Neelima ma’am played my mother in Mom & Co., and we formed a very close bond. She brought a certain warmth to our on-screen relationship that felt genuine. I still wish her on Mother’s Day because that bond stayed even after the show ended. I learned so much from working with both of them. Their approach to acting helped me understand different facets of the craft and definitely influenced my own performances.

Q: The perception of an actor can vary based on the medium they work in—television, web, or film. How do you navigate these changes and manage audience expectations?

Ayush Mehra: It’s definitely a challenge because people tend to associate actors with the medium they see them in the most. If you’re doing a lot of web content, audiences may not immediately accept you in films or television. It takes time and the right projects to change that perception. For me, it’s about finding roles that can break those preconceived notions.

At the end of the day, the medium doesn’t matter to me as much as the role does. I approach each project with the same commitment, regardless of the platform. Whether it’s a web series, a film, or even a sketch, the effort and dedication to the character remain the same. I think it’s all about finding the right project that aligns with your vision and gives you the opportunity to showcase something different. With time, I believe good work speaks for itself and helps change people’s perceptions.

Q: You’ve said that evolving as an actor is essential. How do you keep yourself motivated and continue to grow in your craft?

Ayush Mehra: The only constant in life is change, and as an actor, you need to keep evolving to stay relevant. The craft of acting itself changes every few years, so it’s important to adapt and learn new things continuously. For me, watching films, reading scripts, taking workshops, and drawing inspiration from other actors and directors helps keep me motivated.

I believe working on your craft is a lifelong process. There’s always something new to learn or unlearn, and that’s what keeps me driven. I get inspired by great performances, whether they are from Indian films or international ones, and I aim to push myself to reach that level of excellence. It can be challenging, and there are times when it feels overwhelming, but that’s what makes the journey worth it. You have to be willing to put in the work to evolve and keep moving forward.

Q: In Kacchey Limbu, you took on a physically demanding role with a lot of cricket. How did you prepare for this, and how did it differ from a more emotionally intense project like Minus One?

Ayush Mehra: Kacchey Limbu was quite different because it required a lot of physical preparation. Even though I used to play cricket as a kid, I had to train extensively for the role. I spent around 3-4 hours a day practicing to ensure that I looked authentic on screen. The challenge was not just about playing the game but also about embodying the character’s passion for it.

On the other hand, Minus One was more about getting into the right emotional space. It was a very heavy show with a lot of intense scenes, and I had to dig deep to convey the character’s emotions truthfully. I remember staying up late some nights, just getting myself into the mindset needed for the next day’s scenes. Both projects had their unique demands, but they required the same level of commitment. The approach just varied depending on whether the focus was physical or emotional.

Q: Comedy is a genre you’ve worked in, but you’ve also mentioned a love for intense, dramatic roles. How do you balance the two, and which do you prefer?

Ayush Mehra: I love both comedy and drama, and I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to explore both genres. Comedy is great because of the spontaneity and improvisation involved; it allows you to be playful and brings a sense of lightheartedness to the set. The energy is different, and you can see the immediate impact it has on the audience—they laugh, they react, and that’s gratifying.

However, the artist in me often craves more serious, intense roles because they push me to tap into different emotions and challenge my limits. There’s something very satisfying about doing a role that leaves a lasting impression on the audience, where they think about it long after the show or film ends. That said, I think a balance is important, and I try to mix things up so that I don’t get typecast in a particular genre.

Q: How important is it for an actor to take risks with their roles, especially in a landscape that’s rapidly changing with the advent of streaming platforms?

Ayush Mehra: Taking risks is crucial, especially now when the industry is evolving so rapidly. With streaming platforms bringing diverse content to the forefront, there’s an opportunity to do things that wouldn’t have been considered “mainstream” a few years ago. Audiences today are open to unconventional stories, and as actors, we need to embrace that change by taking on roles that push boundaries.

I’ve always believed that stepping out of your comfort zone is the only way to grow. It’s easy to get stuck in a particular type of role, but I consciously try to choose characters that challenge me in different ways. It’s not just about finding projects that are different; it’s also about finding projects that resonate with you on a deeper level and give you the opportunity to show a new side of yourself.

Q: You’ve mentioned your interest in writing, directing, and even producing in the future. What is it about these roles behind the camera that appeal to you?

Ayush Mehra: I’ve always been fascinated by the process of storytelling, not just from an acting perspective but from all aspects of filmmaking. Writing, directing, and producing give you a different kind of creative control, where you get to shape the entire narrative rather than just your character. There’s something very fulfilling about creating a story from scratch and bringing it to life on screen.

I think at some point, I would definitely want to explore these avenues. But right now, my primary focus is on establishing myself further as an actor. Once I feel I’ve reached a place where I’m ready to take that leap, I’d love to dive into writing and directing. I believe all these roles will complement each other and help me grow as a storyteller.

Q: How do you deal with the challenge of being perceived in a certain way based on the roles you’ve played, and do you believe in the concept of being typecast?

Ayush Mehra: I don’t believe in being typecast because I think it’s up to us as actors to change that trajectory. If you’re known for a particular kind of role, it’s about finding ways to make it different from what you’ve done before. Even within the same genre, there’s always room to explore new dimensions and bring something fresh to the table.

I remember when I did Operation MBBS, it surprised a lot of people because they weren’t used to seeing me in a role with a regional accent. It was challenging, but I practiced the UP accent for 12 hours a day for two months, and that dedication paid off. It’s about showing people that you’re capable of more than what they expect from you. It takes the right opportunity and a little bit of risk to change perceptions.

Q: You recently attended Cannes and have been to other international film festivals. What was that experience like, and how did it inspire you as an actor?

Ayush Mehra: Attending Cannes was an amazing experience. It’s a festival that celebrates cinema in its purest form, and being surrounded by such talent was incredibly inspiring. I had the chance to watch films from across the world, meet incredible filmmakers, and be part of discussions about storytelling. It made me realize how much more there is to learn and explore as an artist.

Watching films like Kinds of Kindness with Emma Stone sitting just a few rows away, or seeing George Miller’s Furiosa—it was surreal. You’re in the same room as people you’ve admired for years, and it gives you a sense of belonging to a larger global cinema community. I came back with a renewed passion for acting and a desire to bring my own stories to such prestigious platforms one day.

Q: Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for the next five years in terms of projects and growth as an artist?

Ayush Mehra: In the next five years, I’d love to work on more films and shows that push me as an actor. I want to take on roles that haven’t been explored before, or stories that challenge societal norms. I’m drawn to characters that evoke strong emotions, whether it’s through comedy or drama, and I want to continue creating content that makes people feel something.

There’s a long list of directors I’d love to work with, from Imtiaz Ali to Zoya Akhtar and Sriram Raghavan. I also want to collaborate with new, emerging talents because they bring fresh perspectives. Most importantly, I want to keep evolving, take on diverse roles, and continue learning. If I can keep surprising myself and the audience, then I’ll know I’m on the right path.

Q: As someone who loves romantic films and series, what is it about this genre that resonates with you, and do you have a dream project in mind?

Ayush Mehra: I’m a sucker for romance because there’s something timeless and universal about love stories. They connect with people on a very personal level, and I’ve always found that appealing. There’s also so much room for nuance and depth in romance, from light-hearted stories to more intense, soul-stirring narratives.

I’d love to be a part of a project that redefines the way we look at love, perhaps a story that explores different shades of a relationship over time. Something like Before Sunrise but with an Indian backdrop, where you get to experience the beauty and challenges of love in an authentic setting. It’s a dream of mine to be part of a romantic film that leaves a lasting impact on the audience.

Q: Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring actors who are trying to find their place in this constantly evolving industry?

Ayush Mehra: The most important advice I can give is to be patient and persistent. This industry can be unpredictable, and success doesn’t come overnight. Keep working on your craft, stay open to learning, and never lose sight of why you started in the first place. It’s also crucial to be adaptable and embrace change because that’s the only way to stay relevant.

Don’t be afraid to take risks and step out of your comfort zone. It’s in those moments that you’ll discover your true potential. And remember, it’s okay to fail; it’s a part of the journey. What matters is that you get back up and keep moving forward. If you stay true to your passion and put in the hard work, the right opportunities will eventually come your way. When the right moment comes, be prepared to give it your all, because sometimes all it takes is one role to change the course of your career. Stay focused, believe in your journey, and keep striving for excellence.