As Kartik Aaryan’s Freddy marks its third anniversary, it’s the perfect moment to look back at a journey defined not just by performance, but by sheer grit, discipline, and an astonishing ability to reinvent himself.
When he stepped into the world of Freddy, Kartik chose a path few would dare. Dr. Freddy Ginwala wasn’t a conventional hero. He was socially awkward, quietly unsettling, and complex in ways that required more than emotional depth—he demanded a complete physical overhaul. Kartik committed to the role with startling seriousness, gaining 16–18 kilos to achieve Freddy’s potbellied, discomforting appearance.
“I got used to the idea of eating a lot. My fat percentage must have gone up to 40 – 42 per cent during this phase.” – Kartik Aaryan
But what made this transformation even more admirable was his insistence on doing it the right way. In an age of shortcuts, Kartik believed in staying true to the craft.“In a world where everything is ready-made, I believe in the organic approach he shared, revealing how he and the entire team documented every step of the journey.
Reflecting on the process, Kartik often emphasized how demanding it was, but also how necessary. Every sacrifice was in service of the character, the story, and his commitment to doing justice to the craft that defines him. Today, as we celebrate Freddy’s third anniversary, the film stands not only as a psychological thriller that showcased Kartik’s ability to step into darker, layered roles, but also as a turning point. It marked the beginning of a phase where Kartik pushed his boundaries harder than ever before.