Rupinder Walia on first meeting Ayushmann Khurrana on 'Udta Teer' set
Synopsis
Newcomer Rupinder Walia says Ayushmann Khurrana already knew his name before they were introduced on the 'Udta Teer' set — a small moment that reveals how the star handles co-stars off-camera. With the film now in theatres to mixed reviews, behind-the-scenes warmth may be its most compelling story yet.
Key Takeaways
Rupinder Walia plays a Sikh agent in the Counter Terrorism Squad (CTS) in 'Udta Teer' .
Ayushmann Khurrana greeted Walia by name before their formal introduction, referencing a story from director Akash A.
Walia described the set atmosphere as 'like a family', crediting Khurrana's approach to rehearsals. 'Udta Teer' is produced by Dharma Productions and Sikhya Entertainment , and marks Kaushik's directorial debut.
The film released on 23 October 2026 and opened to mixed reviews .
Actor Rupinder Walia, who plays a Sikh agent in the Counter Terrorism Squad (CTS) in the action-comedy 'Udta Teer', has opened up about his first encounter with lead star Ayushmann Khurrana on set — describing it as an experience that left him speechless.
A Warm Welcome from a Senior Star
Walia recalled that his introduction to Khurrana happened during the rehearsal of a fight sequence. Far from the formal awkwardness one might expect between a debutant and a top-tier star, the meeting was immediately disarming.
'The first time I met Ayushmann paji was during the rehearsal of a fight sequence. He was already rehearsing when the production team introduced me, and he said, 'Oh, you are Rupi paji, I already know you. I have heard your kissa from Akash Kaushik.' I was overwhelmed. Here was a senior artist who went out of his way to make a newcomer comfortable, and I was already mesmerised by his presence. That someone of his stardom receives a newcomer this way is something I can't put into words,' Walia said.
A Set That Felt Like Family
Walia further revealed that the relaxed environment Khurrana cultivated made the entire shoot feel unlike conventional filmmaking. 'He is a true gentleman who knows how to put others at ease. During the shoot, he would come and rehearse every scene with us, and the atmosphere became so relaxed that it didn't feel like we were shooting. It felt like something happening in a family,' he added.
For Walia, the experience appeared to be as much about learning the craft of collaboration as it was about performing. The warmth of a senior co-star, he suggested, can fundamentally change a newcomer's experience on a high-pressure film set.
About 'Udta Teer'
Backed by Dharma Productions in collaboration with Sikhya Entertainment, 'Udta Teer' marks the directorial debut of Akash A. Kaushik. The film's plot revolves around an agent who forgets his identity mid-mission and begins believing he is an Indian counter-terrorism officer — a premise that blends espionage with comedy.
The ensemble cast alongside Ayushmann Khurrana and Rupinder Walia includes Rahul Bose, Ram Kapoor, Gulshan Grover, Raghubir Yadav, and Brijendra Kala, among others. The film released theatrically on 23 October 2026 and opened to mixed reviews from critics and audiences.
What's Next
With 'Udta Teer' now in theatres, all eyes are on its box office trajectory as audience word-of-mouth builds in its first full week of release.
Point of View
But it also underscores a real dynamic in Bollywood: a senior star's off-camera behaviour sets the tone for the entire production, particularly for newcomers navigating their first high-profile role. Ayushmann Khurrana has consistently cultivated a reputation for being collaborative — and that brand of professionalism is itself a strategic asset in a business where ensemble chemistry shows on screen. 'Udta Teer' opening to mixed reviews despite a strong cast suggests the film's warmth behind the camera did not fully translate to the final cut, which is the more important question heading into its second week.
NationPress
28 Oct 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Rupinder Walia in 'Udta Teer'?
Rupinder Walia plays a Sikh agent in the Counter Terrorism Squad (CTS) in 'Udta Teer'. The film, which released on 23 October 2026, also stars Ayushmann Khurrana in the lead role.
What did Rupinder Walia say about meeting Ayushmann Khurrana?
Walia said Khurrana already knew his name before they were formally introduced on set, having heard about him from director Akash A. Kaushik. He described the encounter as overwhelming and said the star made him feel completely at ease.
When did 'Udta Teer' release and how has it performed?
'Udta Teer' had its theatrical release on 23 October 2026 and opened to mixed reviews from critics. Its box office performance in its first full week is still being tracked.
Who directed 'Udta Teer' and who produced it?
'Udta Teer' was directed by Akash A. Kaushik in his feature directorial debut, and was produced by Dharma Productions in collaboration with Sikhya Entertainment.
Who else is in the cast of 'Udta Teer'?
Alongside Ayushmann Khurrana and Rupinder Walia, the ensemble cast includes Rahul Bose, Ram Kapoor, Gulshan Grover, Raghubir Yadav, and Brijendra Kala, among others.
