Archive · 24 Sep 2026
Ayushmann Khurrana Defends Pakistani Spy Role in Udta Teer
Ayushmann Khurrana is acting in a movie called Udta Teer.
He plays Bilal Ahmad, a Pakistani spy who loses his memory in India.
People criticized a clip in which his character says “Pakistan Zindabad.”
Ayushmann said the line is part of the story and was required by the script.
He explained that actors follow what the director and screenplay ask them to do.
The movie mixes spying, comedy and patriotism.
Sara Ali Khan and several other actors are also in the film.
It is directed by Akash A. Kaushik and is planned for release on October 9, although one report gives the year as 2026.
Ayushmann Khurrana said he accepted playing Pakistani spy Bilal Ahmad without hesitation because he trusted the director and script.
He said the “Pakistan Zindabad” dialogue was required by the screenplay amid online criticism of the clip.
Khurrana described Udta Teer as a spy comedy, patriotic comedy and genre-bending film.
The film follows a Pakistani spy who loses his memory in India and is mistakenly recruited into Indian counter-intelligence.
Directed by debutant Akash A. Kaushik, the film stars Sara Ali Khan and is scheduled for release on October 9; one report specifies 2026.
- Who
- Ayushmann Khurrana, Sara Ali Khan, director Akash A. Kaushik and the cast of Udta Teer.
- What
- Khurrana addressed criticism of the “Pakistan Zindabad” dialogue while discussing his role as a Pakistani spy in the film.
- When
- He discussed the issue at the trailer launch on September 23; the film is scheduled for October 9, with one report specifying 2026.
- Where
- The trailer launch took place in Mumbai, while the story is set partly in India.
- Why
- Khurrana said the dialogue and role were demanded by the script and connected to his character’s place in the story.
Script-Based Defense
Online Criticism
“Pakistan Zindabad” dialogue
Script-Based Defense
Ayushmann Khurrana said the line is part of the screenplay and reflects what the story requires from his character.
Online Criticism
Some viewers criticized the dialogue after a clip from the film surfaced online.
Role and patriotic themes
Script-Based Defense
Khurrana described the film as a patriotic spy comedy and said he prioritizes the director’s script when choosing how to perform.
Online Criticism
The dialogue and the portrayal of a Pakistani spy prompted questions and backlash before the film’s release.
- Film
- Udta Teer
- Lead role
- Ayushmann Khurrana plays Bilal Ahmad, a Pakistani spy
- Controversial dialogue
- “Pakistan Zindabad,” which Khurrana said was part of the script
- Director
- Akash A. Kaushik, making his directing debut
- Genre
- Spy comedy, patriotic comedy and genre-bending film
- Release
- Scheduled for October 9; one report specifies October 9, 2026
- Production
- Produced under the banners of Dharma Productions and Sikhya Entertainment
- Notable cast detail
- The film includes Mukul Dev’s final screen appearance
