The moving Lootera (2013), the dramatic Padmaavat (2018) or the almost flawless Gully Boy (2019), it’s difficult to pick a favourite from Ranveer Singh’s filmography. But, to the actor, Jayeshbhai Jordaar is his most special film. With his latest release, he attempts something that he hasn’t done so far — use the medium of cinema to trigger social change. In Divyang Thakkar’s directorial offering, Singh plays a mild-mannered Gujarati man who stands up for his wife and their unborn daughter, thus making a strong case for girl child in our country.

The actor says, “Jayeshbhai is an important film for the times that we live in. It holds up a mirror to some of our society’s ills. I am glad that I had this opportunity to be a part of a film that has a relevant and pertinent social message. It’s one of the things that the purist in me had always hoped for — that through my craft and art, I am able to effect social change.”

From Thappad (2020) triggering a dialogue about domestic abuse to Jai Bhim (2021) highlighting the atrocities against marginalized communities, films in the recent past have had an enduring impact on the audience’s mindset.

Singh hopes that the social comedy — also starring Boman Irani, Ratna Pathak Shah and Shalini Pandey — goes beyond merely entertaining audiences. “Sometimes, I watch certain films that have a deep effect on the way I think. I have seen social change come about after a film releases. That is the true power of cinema. Hopefully, with Jayeshbhai Jordaar, we can [change] people’s attitude in a positive way.”

The recent success of RRR and KGF: Chapter 2 has put the focus again on larger-than-life heroes. But the actor says he was drawn to his  character’s unconventional heroism. “Jayesh is an unassuming, average Joe who, when put in an adverse situation, finds the courage in his heart. When he goes through this journey, it spurs a growth in him, and what he pulls off is remarkable.”