Bollywood is a constantly changing landscape. One moment audiences crave thrilling action, the next they’re shedding tears over emotional ballads that quickly become viral sensations.
Amidst the pressures of box-office success, budget constraints, and even AI advancements, actor Varun Dhawan is betting on a timeless remedy: laughter.
His upcoming film, Sunny Sanskari ki Tulsi Kumari, directed by Shashank Khaitan, promises plenty of laughs. “Everyone needs a good laugh,” Varun shares exclusively with City Times over Zoom. It’s clear he’s missed this genre. “Even doctors say laughter is beneficial for health. This film aims to be a humorous, heartwarming family entertainer.”
Bollywood stars Varun Dhawan (L), Janhvi Kapoor (C), and Rohit Saraf at the trailer launch of their Hindi romantic comedy ‘Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari’ in Mumbai on September 15
Varun notes that following trends hasn’t been fruitful for Hindi films lately. “If action is popular, everyone does action.”
His new film aims to “break the mould.”
The trailer screams classic romcom, featuring over-the-top proposals, awkward rejections, and vibrant musical drama. In his recent roles, Varun has transformed in Bhediya and showcased emotional depth in Jugjugg Jeeyo, but he’s eager to revisit the genre that initially won him fans.
“I hadn’t done a romcom in ages,” he admits. “Sunny is all about love, loyalty, and forever, yet finds himself in today’s dating scene filled with ‘situationships’ and ‘vacationships’ — too many sinking ships at once.”
This encapsulates modern love. As the trailer opens, even Sunny’s grand Bahubali-style proposal faces a harsh rejection. “That’s a downer,” Varun laughs.
No Bollywood romcom is complete without music, and Sunny Sanskari boasts a diverse album. “Music distinguishes us from the West,” Varun says. “We have Sachet-Parampara, Arijit Singh, Guru Randhawa, Sonu Nigam, Khesarilal Yadav, Masoom Sharma… it’s a rich mix. Honestly, our best songs are yet to be unveiled.”
One track, Bijuria, is already making waves. When American YouTuber iShowSpeed danced to it live, Varun was as shocked as everyone else. “That was unexpected. Like Sunny, he’s someone who wears his heart on his sleeve.”
This energy translated to the set, with co-stars keeping the vibe lively. Janhvi Kapoor, Varun’s lead opposite, with whom he worked in Bawaal, kept him on his toes — even hiding fake snakes in his room while filming in Udaipur. “She’s a darling, but there’s never a dull moment,” Varun says. “And Maniesh Paul — our chemistry is something to watch out for.”
Behind the scenes, director Shashank Khaitan (Dhadak), with whom Varun has had past successes like Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania and Badrinath Ki Dulhania, ensures everything runs smoothly. “We get each other’s rhythm,” Varun says. “Sunny’s character emerged from Shashank’s idea about handling exes. Plus, Sunny comes from a jeweler’s family — fun since I’m familiar with diamonds and cuts.”
Yet, Varun is serious about today’s box office reality. “The Hindi film box office is improving this year, but entertainment is key. People visit theaters to be entertained, not lectured.”
After providing laughs, Varun will shift gears with Border 2, his “biggest release ever.”
Varun thrives on switching genres — from the intense Badlapur to the comedic Main Tera Hero. “Both were pivotal for me,” he reflects. “I aim to excel in both genres.”
Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor in ‘Sunny Sanskari ki Tulsi Kumari’
In theatrical mode
OTT has also made an impact. Varun’s global series Citadel: Honey Bunny satisfied his desire for long-form narratives, but he’s currently focused on theatrical releases. “I’m not saying I won’t do more, but for now, my focus is on cinemas.”
And then there’s the AI discussion. With AI generating music, scripts, and even faces, Varun shares his thoughts on creativity’s future. “AI is exciting if used right, but it’s also daunting. Regulations are needed because misuse could lead to identity theft. Technology is so advanced, distinguishing real from fake is tough. Honestly, you could be AI,” he jokes, adding, “It’s a major topic today; it’s both thrilling and alarming.”
Whether it’s thrilling or alarming, one thing is clear: Varun Dhawan isn’t leaving his fate to box-office trends. With Sunny Sanskari ki Tulsi Kumari releasing October 2 in the UAE, he’s embracing joy, nostalgia, and a hint of madness.
