I Auditioned, Faced Rejections, Then This Happened: Harshul Kaul On Journey To Main Vaapas Aaunga -EXCLUSIVE

Main Vaapas Aaunga Harshul Kaul interview: At Filmibeat, we love interacting with artists who are passionate about their craft. As Imtiaz Ali made a roaring comeback with Main Vaapas Aauga, the actors associated with the film also showcased their talent on the silver screen. If you watched the film, I am sure you would have loved Aftab aka Harshul Kal. The boy is literally living his dream.

'Being cast as Aftab in Main Vaapas Aaunga has been the biggest turning point, ' Harshul Kaul said as he got candid about his role. In an exclusive conversation with Filmibeat Assistant Editor, the talented actor spoke about working with Imtiaz Ali, Naseeruddin Shah, and his career rise.

Also Read

EXCLUSIVE! Tia Bajpai On Being Called 'Horror Queen', Reinventing Herself With Number 1: Don't Want To Be...

From reflecting on his journey to collaborating with celebrated filmmakers, Harshul bared his heart out in a meaningful conversation with Filmibeat. Here's why he believes that landing the role of Aftab has become a career milestone for him.

Here are excerpts from the interview

You've been part of a remarkable streak with projects like Paatal Lok, Dhurandhar, and now Main Vaapas Aaunga. How does it feel to see your career evolving with such acclaimed titles?

It feels surreal. Every project has come at a different stage of my journey and has taught me something valuable. From doing a small scene in Paatal Lok, to sharing screen space with incredible artists in Dhurandhar and now playing Aftab in Main Vaapas Aaunga, I feel grateful. As someone who dreamt of becoming an actor in the 7th standard, it's reassuring to see those dreams slowly turning into reality. I still feel this is just the beginning, and I'm excited for everything that's ahead.

Main Vaapas Aaunga marks your collaboration with Imtiaz Ali. What was your first reaction when you were offered the role?

Working with Imtiaz sir had always been a dream. I auditioned for the role of Aftab, and when I got the call that I had been selected, it was one of the happiest moments of my life. It felt like years of auditions, theatre, rejections, and hard work had finally led me to this opportunity. I'm truly grateful to Imtiaz sir and Mukesh Chhabra sir for believing in me.

In Main Vaapas Aaunga, you play the best friend of the younger version of Naseeruddin Shah's character. How did you prepare to bring authenticity to that relationship?

For me, authenticity came from treating the friendship as something very real rather than trying to perform it. I spent time understanding Aftab's emotional world and the bond he shares with the younger version of Naseeruddin Shah sir's character played by Vedang Raina. We focused on creating comfort and trust so that the friendship felt natural on screen. Sometimes it's the little moments and silences between friends that make a relationship believable.

Working in a film associated with a legendary actor like Naseeruddin Shah is special. Did you draw any inspiration from his body of work while preparing for your role?

Absolutely. Naseeruddin Shah sir has always been one of the finest actors our country has produced. I've always admired how truthful and effortless his performances are. Watching his work reminds you that honesty is the strongest tool an actor can have. That was something I kept in mind while preparing not to imitate him, but to stay truthful to Aftab.

Even though your appearance in Dhurandhar is a cameo, what made you say yes to the project?

I auditioned for Dhurandhar, and when I was selected, saying yes was an easy decision. The opportunity to work with Aditya Dhar sir and share screen space with Sanjay Dutt sir was something I couldn't miss. As an actor, every set is a classroom. It was never about the length of the role, but about learning from some of the best in the industry.

Paatal Lok received immense appreciation from audiences and critics alike. How has being part of such a celebrated series influenced your career?

Paatal Lok was one of my earliest screen experiences, and it gave me confidence that I belonged here. Even though it was a small part, being associated with such a respected series taught me the importance of sincerity and realism. It motivated me to keep improving and reminded me that every opportunity, no matter how small, can become a stepping stone.

Looking back, do you consciously choose content-driven projects, or has it been a happy coincidence that you've landed such critically acclaimed work?

I think it's a bit of both. Early in your career, you don't always have the luxury of choosing from many scripts. I auditioned for these projects, and I'm grateful that the opportunities I got happened to be backed by strong stories and incredible filmmakers. Going forward, I'd love to continue being part of meaningful cinema that stays with audiences.

Having worked with filmmakers known for their distinct storytelling, what have you learned from these experiences that has shaped you as an actor?

The biggest lesson has been to trust the process and never stop observing. Every filmmaker has a unique way of telling stories, and watching them work has taught me patience, discipline, and emotional honesty. I've realised that great performances don't come from trying to impress people; they come from simply living the moment truthfully.

Is there a particular moment from the sets of Main Vaapas Aaunga that you'll always cherish?

There are so many moments that I'll always cherish, but meeting Naseeruddin Shah sir has to be one of the biggest. Getting the chance to meet him, take his blessings, and share the same film with someone I've admired for years is something I'll carry with me forever. Apart from that, every single day on the sets of Main Vaapas Aaunga felt special. Looking around and realising I was part of an Imtiaz Ali film was a dream come true.

Looking back at your journey so far, what has been the biggest turning point in your career?

Without a doubt, being cast as Aftab in Main Vaapas Aaunga has been the biggest turning point in my career so far. I auditioned for the role, and when I was selected, it gave me confidence that years of hard work were finally paying off. It introduced me to a wider audience and made me believe that I was moving in the right direction.

Finally, if you had to describe this current phase of your career in three words, what would they be?

Grateful. Growing. Dreaming.

We extend our heartiest congratulations to Harshul Kaul and hope that he continues to shine like a star.