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Bollywood News Updated May 20, 2026

Ayushmann Khurrana Performs on Indian Idol Stage That Once Rejected Him

Ayushmann Khurrana performed the reprised version of "Dil Waale Chor" on Indian Idol. He recalled being rejected from the same stage during his struggling days. He credited legendary actress Helen for elevating cabaret performances in Indian cinema. Ayushmann also shared that his mother, like Helen, is from Burma.

Ayushmann Khurrana performs at Indian Idol: The same stage which once rejected me

Mumbai, May 20

Aside from his acting skills, Ayushmann Khurrana has also managed to win numerous hearts with his singing prowess.

Recently, the 'Dream Girl' actor performed the reprised version of his track "Dil Waale Chor" from his latest release, "Pati Patni Aur Woh Do" during an episode of the singing reality show, "Indian Idol".

The moment reminded him of the time when he faced rejection from the very same stage on which he now performed as a celebrity.

Recalling his struggling days, Ayushmann wrote on his official Instagram handle, "This is the extended version of Dil Wale Chor (reprise) which I performed at Indian Idol. The same stage which once rejected me during my struggling days. Surreal. Thanks for loving the song. Thanks for loving the film. #PatiPatniAurWohDo running successfully in cinemas! (sic)."

For the unaware, the 'Vicky Donor' actor was rejected during the second season of the reality show "Indian Idol".

During the episode, Ayushmann also credited the legendary actress and dancer Helen for changing the perception of cabaret performances in Indian cinema.

Pouring his heart out, he said, "Cabaret ko, jise aaj item songs kaha jata hain, aapne ek artist ka darja diya. Asha Tai ne jitne khoobsurat gaane aapke liye gaaye aur jis tarah aapne unhe perform kiya it was truly tremendous. (Cabaret, which is now known as item songs, was given the stature of an artist by you. The beautiful songs that Asha Tai sang for you and the way you performed them, it was truly tremendous)"

He shared that just like Helen, his mother is from Burma.

The 'Andhadhun' actor added, "Meri maa Burma se hain aur unki zindagi ka sabse bada flex yeh tha ki Helen Ji bhi Burma se hain. Main bachpan se yahi sunta aaya hoon. Maa ne mujhe bachpan mein ek rhyme bhi sikhayi thi aur maine socha tha ki jab bhi aapse milunga, woh rhyme zaroor sunaunga. (My mother is from Burma and the biggest flex of her life was that Helen Ji is also from Burma. I have been hearing this since childhood. My mother had taught me a rhyme in childhood, and I had always thought that whenever I meet you, I will definitely recite that rhyme)."

— IANS

Reader Comments

Michael C

It's amazing how he turned a setback into a stepping stone. The way he mentioned his mother's connection with Helen ji is so heartwarming. Indian Idol got it wrong the first time but the universe corrected it beautifully.

Arjun K

Honestly, Indian Idol has rejected many talented people over the years. While Ayushmann is a shining example of success after rejection, I wonder how many others they've missed. But glad he got his big break eventually! 👏

Priya S

That rhyme his mother taught him and he still remembered it for Helen ji - pure emotions! ❤️ Also props to him for giving cabaret its due respect. We need more artists who honor their roots like this.

Rachel V

Such a great example of 'never give up'! But I do think it's a bit sad that even after all this success, he still remembers the rejection so vividly. The entertainment industry can be tough. Good for him for making it.

Vikram M

The way he acknowledged Helen ji and Asha Bhosle ji shows his class. Not many stars take time to appreciate the legends who paved the way. Ayushmann is not just a great actor but a genuine artist at heart. Truly tremendous! 🎤

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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