Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana has carved a niche for himself with meaningful and moving social dramas and light-hearted family entertainers. But not just on screen, he also believes in doing his bit in real life. As UNICEF India’s National Ambassador, he is often seen promoting child rights, online safety, mental health awareness and gender equality. Recently, the Pati Patni Aur Woh Do actor visited Maharashtra’s Jalna district and met authorities after reading a young girl’s letter about female students dropping out of school due to unsafe roads. Khurrana, who was moved by the struggles of these children, said that a country cannot progress if its children are suffering. He also raised concerns about the issues faced by rural India.
Ayushmann Khurrana Visits Maharashtra’s Jalna
Talking to reporters, said that during his visit to a village in Jalna district as part of a UNICEF-supported programme, a young girl handed him a letter highlighting the poor road conditions leading to her school. He explained that unsafe roads often force children, especially girls, to drop out of school. The actor added that the letters were personally handed over to the District Collector and he hopes the issue will be addressed soon.
“When young children become aware and express their views through education, it makes us feel that our country is moving forward,” said Ayushmann.
He added, “The message to society is that we must be more conscious of our efforts regarding future generations. Seventy per cent of India lives in villages, and if our villages do not flourish, how can our country progress? And if children are suffering in the primary sector or in villages, then I think our country is suffering too. That is why this is a drastic step.”
He added that although he had previously participated in several UNICEF campaigns in Delhi, Mumbai and at the Women’s World Cup, this was his first rural field visit. Ayushmann said that the visit gave him a firsthand experience of grassroots work and described it as an eye-opening experience.
The Bollywood actor also said that Maharashtra had given him a lot and that, having become a Mumbaikar after entering the Hindi film industry, the visit to Jalna felt extra special.
Work Front
Ayushmann Khurrana will be next seen in Sooraj Barjatya’s next, titled Yeh Prem Mol Liya. The film also stars Sharvari, Anupam Kher, Saumya Tandon, Seema Pahwa and Swanand Kirkire. It recently wrapped up filming and is expected to release on November 27.