IT’S AN HONOUR AND A GREAT RESPONSIBILITY: AYUSHMANN
The actor strives to protect children’s rights in his capacity as UNICEF India’s National Ambassador
Actor Ayushmann Khurrana, known for tackling social issues through his films, was appointed as the UNICEF India National Ambassador on Saturday. With this, Khurrana will be extending his support to ensure “the rights of every child to survive, thrive and be protected as well as promoting their voice and agency in decisions that concern them”.
Speaking on the occasion at the UNICEF India office in Delhi, the Doctor G (2022) actor said, “It is an honour and a great responsibility at the same time. Being an actor, it is important to connect with and know the grassroots of every place. Since I have travelled the length and breadth of my country due to my work, I know my country well.”
From addressing infertility and sperm donation in his debut film, Vicky Donor (2012), to tackling erectile dysfunction in Shubh Mangal Savdhaan (2017) and bringing to light caste discrimination in Article 15 (2019), Khurrana has consistently opted for films that deal with social issues. Speaking about the power of films in driving social change, the actor added, “Filmo ke zariye kosish hamesha yeh nahi rehti ki jo samaaj mein hai wo dikhaya jaye, filmo ke zariye kosish yeh bhi rehti hai ki kya samaaj ban sakta hai woh bhi dikhaya jaye.”
Khurrana joined hands with UNICEF in 2020, when he was appointed as a Celebrity Advocate to further the child rights agenda. “Children are the future of our country. If you are ignoring them and not even taking care of their basic rights, then we are not in a good situation. Being the new National Ambassador of this institution has given me the platform and opportunity that I have always sought as an individual and as an artiste too. Not only me, but everyone should be passionate about children and their future,” he said.
With the slogan ‘all rights for all children’ echoing in the UNICEF India lawns, the afternoon commenced with beat-boxing and rap performances by children, bringing forth the many issues related to child rights. This was followed by a fun and informative session between the kids and the National Award winning actor, who went on to answer some questions. On the impact of social media on children, for instance, Khurrana said, “Times have changed. With such a vast influx of information, one can’t consume everything. This holds true not just for kids, but elders too. As role models for kids, I think we have to set an example.”
Being UNICEF India’s National Ambassador has given me the opportunity that I have always sought. Not only me, but everyone should be passionate about children and their future.
AYUSHMANN KHURRANA, Actor