2024 has undeniably been the year of Kartik Aaryan, with the actor securing his position as one of Bollywood’s youngest and most successful stars. His remarkable success, both commercially and critically, has made him a force to reckon with in the entertainment industry, from the record-breaking success of ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ to his transformative performance in ‘Chandu Champion’. It comes as no surprise then that he was crowned the ‘Leading Man of the Year’ by a popular pop-culture magazine.

With ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ setting box office records and becoming one of the highest-grossing films of the year, Kartik Aaryan proved that he has the charisma and box office draw to lead a major franchise. The film’s success catapulted him into the coveted 200 crore club, making him the youngest actor to reach this milestone—a feat that solidified his status as one of the most bankable stars in Bollywood today.

However, it’s his role in ‘Chandu Champion’ that truly showcased the depth of his talent. The film presented a physically and mentally demanding challenge for Kartik, one that required a transformation both in terms of his physique and his approach to the character. To embody the role authentically, Kartik underwent a shocking transformation, pushing himself beyond his limits. His dedication and hard work did not go unnoticed. ‘Chandu Champion’ became the perfect platform for him to prove his mettle as an actor, with both critics and audiences praising his impactful performance.

In an interview with a leading magazine, Kartik reflected on the significance of ‘Chandu Champion’, saying, “That film gave me so much validation, so much confidence as an actor. I needed that…. Which is why I tend to involve myself in departments outside my own—whether a film is being written correctly, is being shot well, how the edit is coming along.”

As 2024 draws to a close, Kartik Aaryan’s title as Leading Man of the Year is a fitting recognition of his talent, dedication, and the massive impact he has made in the industry this year.