Vibhore Mayank on global recognition of Bayaan: "I waited 14 years for this moment; quitting was never an option"

Actor Vibhore Mayank is currently enjoying the success of his second feature film, Bayaan, which has been making a strong impression on the international film festival circuit. The film premiered at both the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and the Busan International Film Festival, where it received a warm response from audiences.

In Bayaan, Mayank plays a local police officer with a hidden motive who assists Huma Qureshi’s character in solving a case. Speaking with Hindustan Times, he said, “Even though it’s a very rooted story, the film has global relevance.” He added, “It explores how people blindly follow a cult in a small town — and that idea reflects a larger issue.”

Mayank’s journey in the film industry has been far from easy. After moving to Mumbai from Lucknow in 2011, he admitted that planning a career in acting wasn’t something he could afford at the time. “I waited 14 years for a film to make it to such prestigious festivals and get houseful shows. The results are finally showing now,” said the actor, who made his lead debut with Chitrakut in 2023, directed by Himanshu Malik.

Although Chitrakut was a small independent film with limited reach, it proved to be a valuable learning experience. Mayank realized that being part of projects with known actors and a built-in audience was key to gaining wider recognition. Two years later, Bayaan gave him that opportunity — and the visibility he had long been working toward.

Reflecting on his early struggles, Mayank spoke openly about the long road to this point. “I did small roles, worked as a dubbing artiste, assisted on projects, and was involved in casting. I kept going, hoping for my break,” he said. “There were times when I felt it was taking too long, and I wondered when things would finally work out. But I never thought of quitting. Practising art is a luxury, and you have to earn it. I kept working, learning, and doing whatever it took to sustain myself.”

For Mayank, this moment feels like a culmination of years of effort — but he’s clear that it’s only the beginning of a new chapter.

Also Read: Huma Qureshi starrer Bayaan selected for TIFF 2025 Discovery section; becomes only Indian film in line-up