Within the glamorous realms of Bollywood, where luxury cars and designer outfits are the norm for the glitterati, actor Kartik Aaryan emerges as not only a success story but also an inspiring figure of grounded perseverance. Aptly called ‘the humble King’ by his ardent followers, Aaryan’s journey toward becoming a household name was paved with the modesty of three-wheel rickshaw rides, even as he rose through the industry ranks.
Kartik Aaryan made his first significant mark in Indian cinema with ‘Pyaar Ka Punchnama’ back in 2011. However, despite the general acclaim, it wasn’t until seven years later, with the blockbuster ‘Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety,’ that Aaryan felt the euphoria of success. It’s both surprising and refreshing to know that during these formative years, even after delivering multiple hits, Aaryan could not afford the luxury of a car and would often resort to rickshaws for commuting to award functions—a testament to his down-to-earth personality and an almost antithetical image to the opulence commonly associated with movie stars.
Reflecting on his more humble times, Kartik Aaryan recently divulged his experiences on the season finale of No Filter Neha Season 6, hosted by Neha Dhupia. Here he revealed how his financial inability to own a car never deterred him but instead strengthened his resolve. “Before ‘Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety’, there was a lull period where people didn’t know who I was. They didn’t know that I existed,” Aaryan recounted, hinting at the transient nature of fame and success in the film industry. He also acknowledged that there were times when the lack of a personal vehicle was an issue, primarily for attending industry events, and that for his initial few films, he had no other choice but to take rickshaws.
When Aaryan finally gathered the means to purchase an automobile, it was a third-hand car with a defect often found in well-worn vehicles. The driver’s side door was jammed shut—a peculiar inconvenience he had no choice but to adapt to. Describing a rather comic but charming anecdote, he shared how he would prompt the valet to open the passenger door, from where he would clamber across to the driver’s seat. This ingenuity in navigating a minor adversity reflects Aaryan’s overall approach to challenges—he approaches them with humor and grace.
Kartik Aaryan’s groundedness is further highlighted by how, despite all the obstacles, he remained focused on his ambitions, choosing to invest every ounce of his energy into his film projects. He explained, “I knew that I wanted to concentrate on that one film,” manifesting an unwavering conviction towards his passion for acting.
As Aaryan laughed off his early automotive misadventures, he acknowledged that these episodes have cultivated a deep appreciation for something he once went without. “That is why I am fond of cars. That is why I buy so many cars. At one point, I had no vehicles so my mission was to buy all the cars. I thought I will make a garage which will have all the cars,” he said, his smile reflecting his journey from an earnest actor to an accomplished star with a fleet at his disposal.
In an industry often criticized for its materialistic values, Kartik Aaryan stands as a relatable figure; his rise to fame is a narrative of dedication and humility—a stark contrast from the conventional tales of overnight stardom. Though he now finds himself in a position where flashy cars and opulent living could easily become his daily norm, Aaryan’s early experiences have visibly left a lasting imprint on him, ensuring he remains grounded.
From relying on the ubiquitous auto-rickshaws of Mumbai to eventually making heads turn as he steps out of his luxury rides, Kartik Aaryan’s story is not just one of achieving dreams but also a reminder of the virtues of staying true to one’s roots. His story serves as an inspiration for countless aspiring actors and fans, underscoring the notion that one’s present circumstances are not indicative of their future success, and that with determination and a genuine spirit, anyone can pave a path to the stars.
