On Thursday, Vicky Kaushal commemorated the 10th anniversary of Masaan, the critically acclaimed film that launched his career in Hindi cinema. The drama, set in Varanasi and directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, was released on July 24, 2015, and gained widespread praise for its storytelling and Kaushal’s portrayal of Deepak Kumar, a lower caste student navigating love and societal barriers.
The Film’s Impact and Early Recognition
Masaan, a term referring to the cremation grounds in Varanasi, premiered at the Cannes Film Festival where it earned two awards: the FIPRESCI Prize and the Promising Future Award in the Un Certain Regard category. The film’s narrative intertwines two stories that explore themes of caste, love, loss, guilt, and redemption, resonating deeply with audiences and critics alike.
Vicky Kaushal’s Journey Since Masaan
Since his debut, Vicky Kaushal has become one of the most celebrated actors in Hindi cinema, with acclaimed performances in films like Raman Raghav 2.0, Raazi, Sanju, Uri: The Surgical Strike, Sardar Udham, and his recent film Chhaava. Ahead of Chhaava’s release in February, Kaushal described his career progression as surreal, highlighting the rare opportunities he’s had.
Couldn’t have imagined… It feels very surreal. It feels there is God who’s blessing me and people’s love has been so special. The kind of directors I got to work with in these ten years has been nothing short of a blessing. So, I truly feel supremely grateful,
Kaushal shared.
Reflections on Masaan’s Production and Reception
Vicky Kaushal is the son of veteran stuntman Sham Kaushal and revealed that during the shooting of Masaan, there was uncertainty about its theatrical release. Made on a limited budget, the film was considered part of parallel cinema, a distinction that has since become less clear as more films blend mainstream and art-house elements.
At that time, I was just trying to get opportunities to prove myself as an actor within the industry,
he explained.
Director and Writer Commemorate the Anniversary
Neeraj Ghaywan, who recently returned to the Cannes Film Festival with his second directorial Homebound, marked the milestone by sharing behind-the-scenes photographs from Masaan. Similarly, writer Varun Grover, who also penned the film’s signature songs including ‘Tu Kisi Rail Si,’ posted a heartfelt message on X to celebrate the anniversary.
10 years to Masaan today. A film that didn’t succeed commercially and still permeated through the hearts of so many who interacted with it. Always grateful for the journey we took, the leap of faith we were allowed to make, and the love that keeps pouring in even after a decade. Thanks to everyone on the crew – from every producer to actor to HOD to every lightman to the spotboys and camera attendants to the junior artistes – who gave it their all,
Grover wrote.
Additionally, cinematographer Avinash Arun expressed his gratitude in an Instagram story:
10 years of Masaan. Thank you Neeraj and Varun for making us all part of this memorable experience.
The Film’s Ensemble and Production Background
Alongside Vicky Kaushal, Masaan features performances by Richa Chadha, Shweta Tripathi, Sanjay Mishra, and Pankaj Tripathi. The film was an Indo-French collaboration, produced by Drishyam Films, Macassar Productions, Phantom Films, Sikhya Entertainment, Arte France Cinema, and Pathé Productions, highlighting a unique partnership that contributed to the film’s distinct style and reach.
The Lasting Legacy of Masaan and Vicky Kaushal’s Career
Masaan’s success not only provided a breakthrough for Kaushal but also widened the scope for films addressing complex social themes in Indian cinema. As he reflects on a decade of growth and recognition, his journey represents the evolving landscape of Hindi films, where stories blending artistic depth and mainstream appeal continue to flourish. With many acclaimed projects behind him and more anticipated roles ahead, Vicky Kaushal’s career remains closely tied to the milestone of his debut, underscoring a decade of dedication and transformation.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Katrina Kaif fall for Vicky Kaushal?
A. Envisioning the Future. Before Katrina met Vicky in person, she showed interest in teaming up with him. In 2019, during an episode of “Koffee With Karan,” she named Vicky as an actor she’d like to work with, predicting their eventual partnership.
Q. What is Vicky Kaushal’s religion?
A. His younger brother, Sunny, works as an actor too. Their family is Punjabi Hindu and originally from Hoshiarpur, Punjab. Kaushal has said he was a “regular kid” who enjoyed studying, playing cricket, and watching movies.
Q. What is the age gap between Vicky Kaushal and Katrina?
A. Katrina Kaif is five years older than Vicky Kaushal.
Q. What is the religion of Vicky Kaushal?
A. His family comes from a Punjabi Hindu background, originally from Hoshiarpur, Punjab. Kaushal described himself as a typical kid who liked school, cricket, and movies.
