Meet Ayushi Khurana

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ayushi Khurana and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ayushi, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
My father once said, “When you pick a tough road, one that’s risky, the real prize isn’t just getting to the end—it’s in the crazy ride itself, where you’re knee-deep in every twist and turn.” That is probably why I can’t resist taking risks. For me, taking risks is a process of finding yourself. Whether I’ve failed or succeeded, each risk has taught me something new. Sometimes, I’ve had to face some awkward truths; other times, I’ve just added it to my self-improvement list. But in the end, all these wild rides have somehow made me a better, slightly more amusing version of myself.

I took a leap and decided to study law back in India because, well, my dad thought it would be a solid career move for his clueless daughter. Plus, I had a bit of a crush on Harvey from Suits—he’s both hot and an inspiring badass. Fast forward five years, and I graduated as a lawyer with honors. Along the way, I learned a couple of hard truths: First, I came alive during college theater, not in the courtroom. And second, being a lawyer is nothing like what they show in the movies—no dramatic speeches or stylish showdowns, just a lot of paperwork! Taking that risk ended up pushing me onto this wild creative journey I’m on now. Along the way, I figured out how to make use of those grueling five years, and somehow, they’ve helped shape me into the producer I am today.

And talking about today, I am ready to take a new risk. I have chosen to build something of my own with my experience of learning from the industry bests here in Hollywood during my masters years and with a little bit of my business-minded father in me, I have registered and minted a production house here in LA with a passionate team. Focusing on commercials, music videos, and short films as of now, We are aiming like Arjuna at taking this to greater heights with a passion for telling amazing and new stories.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
So here’s the thing—I’ve never really considered myself a true artist, and honestly, I still don’t. I see people around me, especially in film school and the industry, who can quote Shakespeare like it’s their second language and have this whole “artsy” vibe. But that’s just not me. I totally admire those true artists whose work speaks a thousand words, but I haven’t reached that point with my own work yet. And you know what? I think that’s what sets me apart from a lot of people.

For me, art isn’t about dropping deep philosophical truths or making people ponder the meaning of life. I want to create films that entertain the inner child in me. I’m all about crafting stories that let you escape, even if just for a moment. When someone watches my film, I want them to forget their problems, their worries, and even who they are. In that moment, I want them to become the protagonist, to live and breathe the story unfolding on the screen.

Honestly, I don’t even know how I got here. I was almost a criminal lawyer, ready to battle it out in the courtroom, and now here I am, producing and directing films in LA. If someone had told me eight years ago that I’d be doing this, I would’ve laughed and totally ignored them. I’m not saying it was easy—it felt like walking on fire most of the time. But somehow, I just kept moving toward the light I thought was at the end of a very dark tunnel. And you know what? I’m still following that light.

Switching gears from law to filmmaking was like deciding to hike up a mountain in flip-flops—exciting, a little bit crazy, and full of surprises. Moving to LA and jumping into the New York Film Academy was like diving headfirst into a pool of creativity. I found my people there—friends and mentors who didn’t care if I could quote Shakespeare, but who helped me find my own voice.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned? You don’t have to fit the mold to succeed. Life’s too short to pretend to be something you’re not. My story is about embracing who I am—quirks, doubts, and all—and using that to fuel my work. I’m on a mission to bring fresh, impactful stories to the screen—stories that are more about real life and less about fitting into someone else’s idea of art.

So, here I am, not a “true artist” in the traditional sense, but someone who’s passionate about making films that matter, and who’s just getting started. This ride is far from over, and I’m excited to see where it takes me!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Alright, so if my best friend came to visit me in LA, we’d be in for a wild ride. Forget a proper itinerary—this is LA, where the vibe is all about going with the flow.

First off, we’d kick things off with a hike up to the Hollywood sign. I’m not usually one for exercise, but my boyfriend swears it’s worth it. And honestly, he’s right—it’s the perfect way to soak in those morning views and feel like you’ve officially arrived in Hollywood. After that, we’d reward ourselves with a trip to In-N-Out, because nothing says “Welcome to California” quite like Animal Style fries.

From there, we’d hit up the classics—Hollywood Boulevard for the star power and Venice Beach for that boho, anything-goes vibe. We’d rent bikes, cruise the boardwalk, and people-watch like it’s a sport. Lunch would be at home because I cook amazing Indian food.

Of course, we’d dive into some art and culture too. The Getty for the fancy stuff and The Broad for the cool, contemporary vibes—because what’s LA without a little bit of art to spice things up? And speaking of spice, we’d definitely make time for tacos—probably at Tacos 1986, where the street-style vibes are as authentic as it gets.

I think nights would be all about watching films. LA has some of the best theaters in the world, and watching a movie here is like an art form in itself. We’d hit up iconic spots like the TCL Chinese Theatre for that old Hollywood glamour, or maybe catch something indie at the New Beverly, where Tarantino himself curates the lineup. But it wouldn’t stop there—we’d also check out some of those cool drive-in theaters. There’s something magical about watching a movie under the stars with the city lights in the background. Whether it’s a blockbuster or a quirky indie film, the experience is pure LA, and it makes every movie feel like an event.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many fabulous folks in my life who deserve a standing ovation in my story! First off, I hit the jackpot with my parents—My father has always been the guiding figure in my life and my mother has been my strongest emotional and mental support, they are my ultimate hype squad. My family, including my little brother and sister, are so endlessly proud of me that it fuels my rocket to the stars. There’s nothing better than catching that gleam in their eyes when they brag about me—it’s the turbo boost I never knew I needed!

Now, let’s talk about my ride-or-die bestie, Appekshya. This girl has walked through fire and somehow comes out the other side with a bigger smile and stronger spirit every time. Her unbreakable resilience is like a superpower, and it’s the kind of energy that charges up everyone around her.

And then there’s the Abhimanch Theatre group in India—my creative playground, my sanctuary, my second home for so many years. It’s where I discovered my calling and my quirkiest self. The incredible community there believed in me so fiercely, they pushed me past my limits, making me realize I could fly.

Apart from all the amazing people back in India, I’ve been lucky enough to stumble upon some fantastic friends and mentors here in LA too! The community at the New York Film Academy welcomed me with open arms, never once making me feel like an outsider. At first, I was totally freaked out, thinking I’d struggle to fit in or find my groove. But, as luck would have it, I found just the right blend of folks to vibe with and draw endless inspiration from.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ayushii_k/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayushi-khurana-14249399/ 

Image Credits
Kushagra Jain Francis Kong