Taking an important message to families and parents: Ayushmann Khurrana on Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan

Ayushmann Khurrana plays a gay man in Hitesh Kewalya’s Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan. Produced by Aanand L Rai, the film is a spinoff of Shubh Mangal Saavdhan (2017). Ayushmann says he did this film to do his bit for the LGBTQ community in India.

“I was born and brought up in a small city and growing up, I did not have adequate knowledge, understanding on same-sex relationships,” Ayushmann says. “I have seen my perspective about the LGBTQ community evolve and I slowly recognised the societal stigma and stereotypes associated with the community at large and it pained me.”

The actor says he was a proud Indian when Article 377 was struck down by the Supreme Court. “Human beings are born equal and should be treated as equals. Who they are, whom they love, what their choices are should never be questioned in a free country. But, sadly, that doesn’t really happen anywhere and evolution to becoming a better society is always a process, always a work in progress. I’m grateful that our nation has also evolved with time and striking down of Article 377 was a historic step towards fostering inclusivity. I was proud of my country when the judgement was passed.”

Ayushmann says he decided to back Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan because such films foster the spirit of inclusivity and individuality in society at large. “I had to back this important project and do my bit to raise more awareness around this sensitive issue. It is an honour that Anand L Rai sir felt that through Hitesh Kewalya’s vision, I could be entrusted to play this important role on screen and take a very important message to as many families and parents in India. This is my attempt at celebrating the individuality of all Indians and championing inclusivity that truly defines us all as human beings.”