Ayushmann Khurrana has addressed the ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ chant featured in his upcoming film Udta Teer, explaining that the dialogue is part of the script and his character’s journey. The actor was asked about the line during the trailer launch of the spy comedy in Mumbai on September 23.
Ayushmann Khurrana breaks silence on ‘Pakistan zindabad’
In Udta Teer, Ayushmann plays Bilal Ahmed, a Pakistani intelligence agent who suffers memory loss following an explosion while on a mission in India. After losing his memory, Bilal begins to believe that he is Indian and even thinks he is an officer with India’s Counter-Terrorism Squad. The identity mix-up forms the basis of the film’s humour, action and political satire.
Addressing the question about chanting ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ as part of his role, Ayushmann said, “That’s part of the script ya. As an actor, you are ready to do anything.” He added that such moments have featured in spy films before, but pointed out that Udta Teer approaches the genre differently.
“It’s a spy comedy. It’s a patriotic comedy. It’s a genre bender,” the actor said, explaining that he approaches a project by first understanding what the script requires from him.
“Whatever the script demands from me, I do,” Ayushmann added. He also described himself as “a director’s baby” and praised debutant filmmaker Akash A Kaushik for writing what he called a “fantastic script”.
Directed by Kaushik, Udta Teer combines espionage with situational comedy and mistaken identity. The trailer shows Bilal retaining his sense of patriotism while forgetting which country he belongs to, resulting in chaos for his Pakistani handlers. Meanwhile, he becomes convinced that he is an Indian counter-terrorism officer.
Ayushmann Khurrana gives tribute to Mukul Dev
The film also stars Sara Ali Khan, who plays a fellow Counter-Terrorism Squad officer. The project reunites Ayushmann and Sara after Pati Patni Aur Woh Do. The ensemble cast includes Gulshan Grover, Ram Kapoor, Raghubir Yadav, Supriya Pilgaonkar, Smita Tambe, Brijendra Kala and Sandeep Anand.
Udta Teer also features late actor Mukul Dev in what will be his final on-screen appearance. Ayushmann remembered Dev at the trailer launch, calling the film a tribute to the late actor and praising his talent.
“Mukul Dev was one of the brightest, most brilliant talents in our country,” Ayushmann said, adding that audiences would see him “for the last time” in the film.
Produced by Dharma Productions and Sikhya Entertainment, Udta Teer is scheduled to release in theatres on October 9, 2026.