Ayushmann Khurrana Hails 'Small-Budget' Films Hanuman Ansh, Obsession: 'We Need To Make Movies Like That'

Ayushmann Khurrana reacted to the success of films like Hanuman Ansh and Obsession, saying that more small-budget films like these should be made.

Actor Ayushmann Khurrana, speaking at the 26th edition of FICCI Frames, reflected on the changing Indian media and entertainment landscape and the growing importance of stories that connect with audiences. Talking about the power of storytelling and the way audiences are consuming content across platforms, Ayushmann highlighted the success of Hanuman Ansh and Obsession as examples of how a strong story can find its audience and create an impact.

Ayushmann Khurrana On Success Of Hanuman Ansh, Obsession

"Stories are everywhere -- films, series, TV, gaming, music, social media content, in all languages, from all corners of India. But for me, India's media moment doesn't lie in the quantity of content we are producing but the value we create through that content. And that is happening. We are inspiring people, we are starting conversations and taking them forward, from India to the world. And one conversation can create change. I have experienced that through films I have been part of over the last decade, and that is the most beautiful part of being an artist," said Ayushmann Khurrana.

He further spoke about how the response to Hanuman Ansh and Obsession reinforces the importance of putting the story at the heart of content. Their strong audience response, despite coming from different storytelling spaces, demonstrates how audiences can embrace content when it creates curiosity, emotion and conversation.

"Hanuman Ansh and Obsession belong to two different worlds and are small-budget films, I think we need to make movies like that. We need to be budget-friendly, connect more with people. It sounds simple but it isn't," the actor said.

Ayushmann also emphasised that India's strength lies in the diversity of stories being created across languages and regions. From cinema and television to gaming and social media, stories are emerging from different parts of the country and reaching audiences beyond traditional geographical boundaries.

For an artist, he believes, the most rewarding aspect is not simply being part of a growing entertainment ecosystem, but being part of stories that can inspire people, initiate conversations and potentially create change.

Meanwhile, on the professional front, Ayushmann Khurrana will next be seen in 'Udta Teer' opposite Sara Ali Khan. Marking the directorial debut of Akash A Kaushik, Udta Teer also brings together a stellar ensemble including Rahul Bose, Ram Kapoor, Suhail Nayyar, Gulshan Grover, Mukul Dev, Raghubir Yadav, Brijendra Kala, Sandeep Anand, Supriya Pilgaonkar and Smita Tambe.

The film will release in cinemas on October 9, 2026.