‘Drishyam 3’ star Jaideep Ahlawat’s lesser-known facts: Wanted to join Army; failed SSB interview; trained at FTII; here’s how he became an actor | Hindi Movie News

Jaideep Ahlawat has emerged as one of the most recognised actors in Hindi cinema. He has impressed audiences with his performances across films and streaming projects. The actor is now set to appear in Ajay Devgn’s upcoming ‘Drishyam 3’. The movie continues the story of Vijay Salgaonkar and his family. Jaideep Ahlawat is among the new additions to the franchise.However, his career could have taken a completely different direction. Before entering the entertainment industry, Jaideep Ahlawat wanted to become an Army officer. The actor attempted the Services Selection Board examinations. According to Cine Tales, he could not clear the interview stage. The setback eventually led him towards acting.

His real name is Jai Kishan Ahlawat

Jaideep Ahlawat was born in Rohtak, Haryana, on February 8, 1980. His real name is Jai Kishan Ahlawat. He later became professionally known as Jaideep Ahlawat. His introduction to acting happened through theatre and stage performances. He eventually decided to receive formal training before trying his luck in the Hindi film industry. Jaideep Ahlawat joined the Film and Television Institute of India in Pune. He completed his training in 2008. After that, he moved to Mumbai to pursue opportunities as an actor. The transition was not immediate. He spent years trying to establish himself before receiving roles that could bring him wider attention.

Jaideep Ahlawat’s early film career

Jaideep Ahlawat made his Bollywood debut with ‘Aakrosh’ in 2010. The movie featured Ajay Devgn and Akshaye Khanna in the lead roles. He subsequently appeared in several projects. His film credits included ‘Vishwaroopam’, ‘Commando’, ‘Chittagong’ and ‘Rockstar’. These appearances helped him build experience. However, they did not immediately turn him into a mainstream star. His breakthrough eventually came through stronger and more challenging characters. His performance in the series ‘Paatal Lok’ became particularly important in establishing him as a widely recognised performer.

Amitabh Bachchan‘s films were part of his childhood

Jaideep Ahlawat also has a special connection with Amitabh Bachchan’s movies. During his appearance on ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’, he recalled how the actor’s films were part of celebrations in his village. “Growing up, whenever a baby was born in my village, the celebrations always included screening your films: ‘Deewar’, ‘Zanjeer’, and ‘Don’. Because of this tradition, I must have seen each of those movies well over a hundred times.” Ahlawat also remembered how ‘Sholay’ became part of family and village celebrations. “Separately, the audio cassette of Sholay was an integral part of our festivities. Every major holiday Holi, Diwali, and others we would gather, and the entire village would listen keenly to the movie’s soundtrack and dialogue, playing the full cassette from start to finish.”

His father supported his acting ambitions

Jaideep Ahlawat’s decision to become an actor was also supported by his father. The actor has previously spoken about the encouragement he received despite choosing a career outside the conventional path. According to The Better India, Jaideep Ahlawat recalled what his father told him when he expressed his intention to become an actor. “If he fails, he’ll do farming.” Ahlawat began his journey through theatre before entering the film industry. His training at the Film and Television Institute of India further strengthened his foundation as a performer.He is now preparing for another major role in ‘Drishyam 3’. The movie is scheduled to release in cinemas on October 2, 2026. Ajay Devgn returns as Vijay Salgaonkar. Tabu reprises her role as Meera Deshmukh, while Shriya Saran returns as Nandini Salgaonkar. Ishita Dutta and Mrunal Jadhav are also returning as Anju Salgaonkar and Anu Salgaonkar. Rajat Kapoor and Prakash Raj are part of the cast as well. Prakash Raj plays lawyer Indrajith Shetty. Jaideep Ahlawat is among the key new additions to the movie.