Soon after graduating from college, Ashok started hunting for opportunities to start his acting career, however, he faced rejection on multiple occasions. Finally, Nalan Kumarasamy offered him his debut movie, the 2013 black comedy Soodhu Kavvum alongside Vijay Sethupathi, Bobby Simha and Sanchita Shetty. His portrayal of an unemployed graduate was met with immense praise with critics calling him `fantastic` in the movie. Next, Ashok was seen in the second installment of the Pizza series, Pizza 2: Villa, playing the role of a novelist. Next, he was seen in Thegidi, his performance in which won him critical acclaim. Some of his other projects include Savaale Samaali, and 144. Meanwhile, in 2017, he has been roped in to be a part of movies such as Sila Samayangalil, Kootathil Oruthan, Pirai Thaediya Naatkal, Nenjamellam Kadhal and House Owner. His 2020 release includes Oh My Kadavule.