Ayushmann Khurrana

UNICEF India National Ambassador

UNICEF
UNICEF India National Ambassador Ayushmann Khurrana poses warmly with a group of smiling children and adolescents in a community centre, wearing his UNICEF "for every child" t-shirt.
UNICEF

Best known for his socially relevant cinema and relatable portrayals of everyday heroes, Ayushmann Khurrana is one of India’s most influential contemporary actors. Both on and off screen, he has consistently used his voice to champion social change and advocate for children’s rights.

“It is truly an honour to further my advocacy for children’s rights with UNICEF India as a National Ambassador. I am passionate about the issues facing children and adolescents in India. I have interacted with children and spoken on internet safety, cyberbullying, mental health, and gender equality. I will keep up a strong voice for children’s rights, especially for the most vulnerable, supporting solutions for issues that impact them the most.” 

Ayushmann Khurrana
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UNICEF Ayushmann Khurrana marks his first day as UNICEF India National Ambassador, stepping into a new chapter of advocacy for children's rights

Ayushmann was appointed as UNICEF India’s National Ambassador in 2023, after serving as a Celebrity Advocate since 2020. Since then, he has been an active advocate for advancing UNICEF’s efforts to improve the lives of children and adolescents in India. His engagement has contributed to raising awareness and mobilizing support on key child rights issues.

Over the years, Ayushmann has engaged across a wide range of child rights issues from 

  • ending violence against children,
  • promoting online safety,
  • championing gender equality,
  • health – child immunization,
  • and youth empowerment.  

His advocacy has spanned on-ground events, digital campaigns and global platforms, consistently amplifying UNICEF India's mission to build a better world for every child.

Background 

Ayushmann Khurrana is widely regarded as one of Bollywood's most purposeful award-winning actors known for choosing films that spark meaningful social conversations. A multi-faceted artist, he has excelled in acting and music, portraying relatable characters who challenge societal norms. 

Glimpses of Ayushmann’s on ground engagement

Promise to children campaign at the ICC Women's World Cup 2025

Ayushmann Khurrana advocated for child rights, gender equality, and every child’s right to play by participating in the trophy walkout at the start of the India - Bangladesh match in Navi Mumbai, highlighting UNICEF’s call to support every child’s right to play. 

Learn more in the press release: Bollywood Star and UNICEF India National Ambassador, Ayushmann Khurrana joins ICC-UNICEF for children’s rights

“As UNICEF India National Ambassador, I am honoured to be here today to support the UNICEF-ICC partnership for children’s rights.  Cricket is more than a game in India; it’s an emotion that brings people together. It’s a spark that can inspire many more, and I am thankful to UNICEF for championing this cause. Today’s Trophy Walkout is a reminder of our shared responsibility to  
make and fulfil our meaningful promise to every child.” 

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UNICEF When every child gets a fair chance, dreams come alive. Ayushmann made his Promise to Children with UNICEF and invites audiences to join the UNICEF donor family and make the promise.

 

 

Radio4Child Awards 2024 

Ayushmann Khurrana presented the Radio4Child Awards in Mumbai, honouring broadcasters across India who use the power of radio to champion children's rights. 

Learn more in the press release: UNICEF India and Ayushmann Khurrana Celebrate Radio Excellence for Child Rights

 

World Children’s Day 2022

Ayushmann Khurrana joined UNICEF Regional Ambassador for South Asia, Sachin Tendulkar in highlighting gender-inclusive sports, engaging with girls and boys from across India.

Learn more in the press release: Leaders, Children, Celebrities and Partners champion inclusion and non-discrimination #ForEveryChild through sports with UNICEF

 

 

Ayushmann’s appointment as Celebrity Advocate, UNICEF India 2020

Ayushmann Khurrana joined UNICEF India as Celebrity Advocate, committing to advocate for the end of violence against children. At the virtual event, welcomed by UNICEF India Representative Dr Yasmin Ali Haque, he recited the short self-composed poem 'Jab tak zinda hai bachpan, tab tak zinda hun mein.'

Learn more in the press release: UNICEF India and Indian youth icon Ayushmann Khurrana join hands to advocate for Child Rights

Videos

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