Aayudh Bhanushali has been winning hearts with his portrayal of young Atal in &TV’s Atal, a show that sheds light on the lesser-known aspects of the childhood of one of India’s most revered leaders, the late Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee. With the show completing its successful first year, Aayudh reflects on his journey, challenges, and unforgettable moments of bringing such an iconic figure to life on screen.
What makes playing young Atal Bihari Vajpayee so special to you? This role is incredibly special to me because Atal Ji was not just a great leader but also an inspiring human being. Portraying his childhood and displaying how his early experiences shaped the leader he became is truly a big honour. This show has been a profound experience, teaching me valuable lessons about humility, courage, and staying true to one’s beliefs.
How does it feel to share screen space with Neha Joshi as your onscreen mother? Neha is like a mentor to me, both on and off the set. I address her as ‘Aai’ in real life also. Her talent, guidance, and support have made all our scenes so real and emotional. In all these years, our bond has grown stronger, and it has truly enhanced the authenticity of our on-screen mother-son relationship. She has taught me so much about acting, and I am grateful for everything I have learned from her during this journey.
What has been the most challenging aspect of portraying young Atal Bihari Vajpayee? The biggest challenge has been capturing the depth of Atal Ji’s personality. Even as a young boy, he was wise and thoughtful. Balancing those qualities while preserving the innocence of childhood was certainly challenging.
You recently celebrated the show’s first anniversary in Gwalior. What was that experience like? The trip to Gwalior was unforgettable. Visiting the library and computer training institute, named after his father Krishna Bihari Vajpayee, was particularly touching, especially knowing that Atal Ji himself inaugurated it. And of course, trying his favorite boondi ladoos at Bahadura Sweets was a sweet treat! Being part of such a meaningful celebration of Atal Ji’s legacy in Gwalior was incredibly special.
How do you personally connect with young Atal Bihari Vajpayee? Atal Ji’s curiosity and love for learning resonate with me. Portraying his childhood has made me more mindful of how small actions and decisions can shape the future. It has inspired me to stay grounded, continue learning, and value his principles.
Is there any character you aspire to play in the future? I would love to play a superhero one day—someone who uses their powers to bring a positive change. I also dream of taking on roles that challenge me emotionally and allow me to grow as an actor. Whether it is a historical figure or a fictional character, I want to be part of stories that leave a lasting impact on the audience.
