As Ayushmann Khurrana turns a year older, the Bollywood star continues to be celebrated for his unconventional film choices and his ability to break barriers in Hindi cinema. Khurrana, known for taking on socially relevant and bold themes, has successfully carved out a niche for himself in an industry dominated by mainstream narratives. On his birthday, let’s take a look at five of his movies that shattered stereotypes and paved the way for fresh storytelling in Bollywood.

1. Vicky Donor (2012)

Ayushmann Khurrana made his Bollywood debut with Vicky Donor, a film that addressed the subject of sperm donation — a taboo topic in Indian society. His portrayal of a young man who becomes a successful sperm donor was both refreshing and revolutionary. The film broke societal stereotypes surrounding infertility and reproductive health, tackling a sensitive issue with humor and grace. Vicky Donor not only entertained audiences but also opened up a conversation around an important yet seldom-discussed topic.

2. Dum Laga Ke Haisha (2015)

In Dum Laga Ke Haisha, Ayushmann played the role of a simple man married to a woman who doesn’t fit society’s conventional standards of beauty. This film challenged stereotypes related to body image and love, proving that relationships are based on emotional connections rather than physical appearances. Khurrana’s portrayal of the lead character’s journey towards self-acceptance and love resonated with audiences, making it a milestone in breaking Bollywood’s obsession with glamour and size-zero physiques.

3. Shubh Mangal Saavdhan (2017)

With Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, Khurrana broke yet another stereotype by addressing the topic of erectile dysfunction, a subject rarely touched upon in Indian films. His performance brought humor and sensitivity to a serious issue that often leaves men feeling embarrassed. The movie encouraged conversations around male sexual health and broke the taboo surrounding it, showing that such issues can be discussed openly without stigma. Khurrana’s performance was lauded for its subtlety and charm.

4. Badhaai Ho (2018)

In Badhaai Ho, Ayushmann played the son of a middle-aged couple who finds themselves expecting a child later in life. The film took a humorous yet heartwarming look at the stigmas associated with elderly pregnancies and challenged the societal perception of parenthood. Khurrana’s role as a young man embarrassed by his parents’ pregnancy was relatable, and the film’s message about breaking age-related stereotypes struck a chord with audiences across the country.

5. Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan (2020)

Ayushmann made headlines once again with Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan, a film that tackled the subject of same-sex relationships in India. By playing the role of a gay man in love, Khurrana helped mainstream LGBTQ+ representation in Bollywood, breaking the long-standing stereotype that love stories in Indian cinema are exclusively heterosexual. The film was a bold step towards normalizing LGBTQ+ love stories and addressing homophobia in society, marking yet another significant moment in his career.

Ayushmann Khurrana has redefined the norms of Bollywood with his unconventional film choices, portraying characters that break away from stereotypes and challenge societal taboos. As he celebrates another year, his contribution to reshaping the landscape of Hindi cinema remains unparalleled. Here’s to many more films that continue to push boundaries and inspire change!