Jaipur (Rajasthan) [India], March 10 (ANI): At the IIFA 2025 awards, Kartik Aaryan was honoured with the prestigious Best Actor (Male) award for his remarkable performance as Rooh Baba in 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3'.

His acceptance speech not only moved the audience but also reflected on the hurdles and triumphs that shaped his career, especially his association with the 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa' franchise.

'I don't have words right now. I am not Chandu, I am the champion. I know this is not an award for that film, but I have the same feeling,' Kartik began, referencing his role from the film 'Chandu Champion', for which he garnered much acclaim.

'The whole journey with Bhool Bhulaiyaa has been full of thorns,' he continued, recalling the doubts and questions that arose when he first joined the franchise.

'From the beginning, when I was cast for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, people questioned whether I could carry the film on my shoulders. And even during Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, we didn't know if we would succeed on the big day,' he said.

Despite the challenges, Kartik expressed deep gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support.

'Thank you to the audience for always supporting the entire franchise and for giving so much love to both Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. This year, when the film was released during Diwali 2024, we were incredibly happy to see the love it received.'

Kartik's emotional tribute continued as he thanked the film's director, Anees Bazmee, for giving him the iconic role of Rooh Baba, a character that has now become an identity in itself. 'A big thank you to Anees Bazmee sir for creating such a huge character, Rooh Baba, which has truly become a legacy across generations,' he said.

'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3' proved to be a milestone in Kartik's career, marking his biggest box-office success.

The film, which clashed with Ajay Devgn's Singham Again, triumphed, grossing over Rs 400 crores globally.

Looking ahead, Kartik expressed excitement for his upcoming projects.

'The biggest thank you also goes to the team behind Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, and I'm excited to take on new roles,' he shared.

Fans are eagerly anticipating his next films, including 'Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri,' directed by Sameer Vidwans and produced by Dharma Productions.

The rom-com, set for a 2026 release, promises to be a fresh and humorous love story, with Kartik voicing his excitement on social media, saying, 'Super excited to return to my fav genre, Rom-com!'

Additionally, Kartik is all set to star in 'Aashiqui 3', helmed by Anurag Basu.

The romantic drama, which features a fresh pairing with South actress Sreeleela, is expected to hit theatres on Diwali 2025.

The film's first look, showcasing Kartik with a beard, playing guitar, and romancing in the mountains, has already caught the attention of audiences. (ANI)