With a background in theatre, VJ-turned-actor Ayushman Khurana came to Mumbai to make it in films three years ago. But he ended up as a VJ on MTV and then hosted some other shows. Now, he has finally earned his Bollywood break. The actor will be seen as the lead in Vicky Donor, a film
produced by John Abraham.

Says Ayushman, “John is an intelligent man and comes from a marketing background. He knows the tricks of the trade and won’t do anything frivolous. He treated me like a younger brother.” The Force actor has been reportedly involved in the filmmaking process of Vicky Donor at every step. He, along with director Shoojit Sarkar, keeps track of the casting and even the music.

Incidentally, it was the director who recommended Ayushman for the part, but John gave him pointers on how to handle the industry. “He suggested that I keep a low profile and be humble,” Ayushman adds. The role required an actor who would look convincing as a young Punjabi guy. “And I am from Chandigarh, my Punjabi is fluent. I can read and write in it too,” enthuses the actor. Based in Delhi, Vicky Donor revolves around a good-for-nothing college graduate called Vicky, “who eventually ends up becoming a sperm donor.”

While shooting in Lajpat Nagar in New Delhi, Ayushman interacted with quite a few “middle class aunties” who had no clue about sperm donation. “They asked me what it meant and how it worked. I had a tough time getting out of that one,” the debutant jokes, before adding, “The concept is unique and it will raise questions and even shock people.”