Ayushmann Khurrana says success of RARKPK sets ground for Dream Girl 2 to address toxic masculinity: ‘Fun to see these films getting acceptance’

At the trailer launch of Dream Girl 2, Ayushmann was asked about the success of a film like Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, which challenges patriarchy and gender stereotypes. To which the actor said he has always “criticised toxic masculinity” off screen and through his work and it’s heartening to see audience reacting warmly to such concepts.

“I’m glad that Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani is doing well. They’ve set a good ground to address toxic masculinity because our film is going to take it to the next level. It’s great fun, and good to see people accepting these kind of films on social causes. It’s not just the messaging in the film, it’s more fun. It has a lot of comedy,” the actor said.

Dream Girl 2 is a sequel to Ayushmann Khurrana’s hit 2019 film Dream Girl, where his character earned money by talking to men on phone in a woman’s voice. In the latest installment, Ayushmaan will be seen raising the stakes as he cross dresses as a woman. The film also stars Ananya Panday.

“Of course, you take inspiration from Kamal Haasan sir in Chachi 420 or Govinda in Aunty No 1. A lot of actors have done this, including Kishore Kumar ji. So actors have gotten an opportunity in every decade to play characters like these. I’m glad I got it too with this film, which says a lot in a light hearted, fun way,” Ayushmann said.

At the event, the actor joked that he wants to win both best actor and actress award for his role in Dream Girl 2 and added that the film was challenging to shoot. “We were filming in Mathura in 45 degrees. Everyone else was shooting normally but I was wearing a wig and in that get-up (of a woman).”

Ananya chimed in, “Now you understand what heroines go through?!” as the audience erupted in claps. “I mean, total respect,” Ayushmann said and added, “After this film, my respect for women has only increased. The empathy has been awakened more. I think every boy should step into their shoes once to understand what all they go through.”

Directed by Raaj Shaandilyaa, Dream Girl 2 also stars Asrani, Paresh Rawal, Abhishek Banerjee, Rajpal Yadav, Manjot Singh and Vijay Raaz. The film will release on August 25 and will be the first theatrical release of Ayushmann Khurrana this year.