Ashwani Kumar highlights women strength, urges audience to watch 'Devyani'
New Delhi, August 10
Archana Gautam and Ashwani Kumar starrer 'Devyani' promises an eye-opener against the negative perception surrounding the birth of a girl child, said Kumar.
Ashwani Kumar, Secretary, IT Department, Assam and Director of Directorate of Information Technology, Electronics and Communication (DITEC), spoke about his film, urging people to watch it on ZEE5.
"In today's society, there is a perception--often negative--surrounding the birth of a daughter. When a girl is born into a family, people often view it as a burden or a shock. There are prevailing notions that a girl requires a dowry, or that girls are somehow bad or inauspicious. But that isn't the whole picture. Many people want a daughter; they desire to have one. However, they are held back by fear--fear of a society where times are tough, where one doesn't know if a girl who steps out will return safely. Every day, she faces the risk of harassment--whether outside, within her extended family, or even in her own home... I have observed this and personally felt that, and that is what I have tried to portray here. It has already been released on Zee5; it is currently streaming there, so anyone can go and watch it," Ashwani Kumar told the media.
He also opened up on how Archana Gautam felt he was a perfect choice for the role.
"Archana Gautam, who is my co-star, said that no one could do the role better than me. She asked me to remain my natural self in the film. I felt that I should share my message to everyone. Women are the source of strength," he added.
Written and directed by Ashish K Panda, 'Devyani' is made under the banner of Gautam Motion Picture. It features Ashwani Kumar and Archana Gautam in the lead roles.
It is currently streaming on ZEE5.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Ashwani Kumar is right. I'm a father of two daughters and the amount of times I've been asked "beta, ladka nahi hua?" is ridiculous. The fear of safety is real but we need to change the narrative. Good that such films are being made. Will watch this weekend.
The dowry system is still such a shame in our society. I've seen families secretly celebrating when a boy is born and doing "kanyadaan" quietly for girls. We need more content like this to educate people, especially in rural areas where these beliefs are strongest.
While I appreciate the effort, I wish our films would also show the positive side - how daughters are actually the ones who care for parents in old age, how they're achievers in every field now. The fear narrative is valid but let's also celebrate the progress. Still, kudos for starting this conversation.
My mother always says "beti ho toh ghar ki izzat ho" - and she's right! Our daughters are the ones leading India in every field - from space scientists to athletes. Great to see a government official using his platform for this message. ZEE5 definitely getting my subscription for this. 💪
It's 2025 and we're still having these conversations? The fact that a film needs to be made about this shows how deep-rooted the problem is. But better late than never. At least someone is trying. Respect to Ashwani ji for using his official position to spread awareness.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.