Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana has been honored with the TIME100 Impact award for his work in using cinema to promote social change.
In his acceptance speech, Khurrana recited a verse from the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizing the importance of selfless action and detachment from the fruits of one's labor he said, The Bhagavad Gita - Karmanye vadhikaraste, Ma Phaleshu Kadachana, Ma Karmaphalahetur bhurma, Te Sango Stvakarmani. This verse encapsulates the essence of selfless action. It emphasises to be process oriented than result oriented. It trains you to be detached from the fruits of your labour.” He also proudly represented India at the prestigious global event, speaking to the country's growing prominence as a center of progressive storytelling through cinema.
Khurrana has a long history of using his platform to advocate for social issues. He began his career as a street theater actor, performing plays that satirized social ills and called for change. In recent years, he has starred in a number of Bollywood films that have tackled taboo topics such as erectile dysfunction, sperm donation, and gender identity.
Khurrana's latest film, 'Dream Girl 2,' is a sequel to his 2019 hit comedy about a man who can impersonate a woman's voice. The film has been a box office success, grossing over 100 crore rupees (approximately $12.5 million).
Khurrana's TIME100 Impact award is a well-deserved recognition of his work in using cinema to promote social change. He is an inspiration to many, and his films are helping to make India a more progressive and inclusive society.