As the 2024 General Elections draw near, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has roped in actor Ayushmann Khurrana to inspire people, especially young individuals, to vote in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
Khurrana, renowned for his roles in films like “Dream Girl,” “Andhadhun,” “Badhaai Ho,” and “Article 15,” has been featured in ECI’s campaign video titled ‘No Excuse Day! Join the celebration of Chunav Ka Parv with Ayushmann Khurrana’.
In the video, Ayushmann Khurrana spotlighted the numerous excuses individuals make to avoid voting, emphasising the crucial importance of civic responsibility. While acknowledging the various reasons people cite for abstaining from voting, he underscored the singularly significant reason to cast one’s ballot which is our duty as citizens of the nation.
Reports quoted Khurrana saying, “Everyone must vote and be conscious citizens by participating in the process of nation-building. The power to choose the leaders who will represent the country, represent our needs in the Parliament rests with us. Every vote counts and every vote is important. Voting is a symbol of empowerment in a democratic nation like ours.”
Actor also added “I am honoured and humbled to have been roped in by ECI to urge youngsters to cast their vote in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. We are the largest democracy in the world; we are also a country with a huge youth population. So, it is imperative that the youth participates in deciding the future of our nation by casting their vote.”
According to reports, Santosh Ajmera, Director of Voter Education at ECI in New Delhi, commended the actor for supporting the ECI’s campaign, addressing urban and youth apathy in the election participation.
“The film, while a commentary on individual behaviour whereby voting day is often considered as a holiday with hundreds of excuses offered for not to vote, gives out a beautiful message and a single reason for why one should vote.”
“Ayushmann Khurana’s act is highly convincing and impactful and resonates well with his followers, mostly the younger generation. ECI has tried to utilise Ayushmann’s potential and reach to inspire and mobilise youngsters towards voting, as an important democratic exercise and duty towards the future,” he added.
The Lok Sabha elections are scheduled to be held in seven phases beginning April 19, with counting of votes slated for June 4.
