IAS officer and IITian Ashwani Kumar is stepping into cinema with Devyani, a short film that uses storytelling to explore women’s safety, empowerment and the freedom to live without fear.
Kumar, who serves as Director DITEC and Secretary IT in the Assam Government, said the idea behind Devyani was shaped by situations he had witnessed around him.
The film challenges the conventional idea that women should primarily be protected rather than being encouraged to become protectors themselves.
Devyani seeks to underline the capabilities of women across fields, from competitive examinations and sports to the Army and Air Force.
For Kumar, the message is not about creating a divide between men and women, but about building a society where both can progress together.
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A Film With a Message for Young Minds
A special screening of Devyani was organised for school students, giving young viewers an opportunity to engage with its themes.
The film addresses issues including women’s safety and female foeticide while questioning social attitudes that can restrict women’s choices.
Kumar believes cinema and storytelling can make such conversations easier to understand, particularly for younger audiences.
His larger vision is simple: girls should be able to step outside their homes without fear and pursue their ambitions without unnecessary restrictions.
What His IAS Career Taught Him About Women’s Struggles
Kumar said his experience in public service has exposed him to situations where women and girls struggle to report problems or fail to receive adequate support from their families.
He recalled seeing cases where women facing difficulties were discouraged from stepping outside rather than being encouraged to speak up and seek help.
He also shared an initiative from his own workplace. Last year, he asked the women working in his office to tie him a Rakhi, hoping to create a more approachable and supportive environment where they could comfortably discuss their concerns.
According to Kumar, when women feel safe and supported at the workplace, their confidence and productivity can also grow.
Ashwani Kumar Praises Archana Gautam
Kumar also spoke warmly about working with actor Archana Gautam in Devyani.
He praised her dedication and sincerity, saying her approach to work left a strong impression on him.
Kumar said he had always considered himself deeply committed to his own professional responsibilities, but his experience on the film set gave him a new appreciation for the dedication of artists and creators.
He described the ability of artists to create something new as a remarkable quality and said it inspired him.
Rajat Bedi Became More Than a Co-Actor
Kumar also opened up about his relationship with actor Rajat Bedi, who has returned to the film industry with Aapki Deewani.
Describing Bedi as a brother, Kumar said their relationship goes beyond a professional association.
He said he considers close friends part of his extended family and believes in standing beside them during difficult times.
Interestingly, Kumar’s involvement in Bedi’s project was kept private until its release, with only people directly associated with the project aware of his participation.
He also praised Bedi’s hard work and focus, describing the actor as someone from whom he draws inspiration.
IAS Duties and Cinema: How He Balances Both
Despite juggling a demanding administrative career and a new creative pursuit, Kumar said he does not view his life as conventional multitasking.
Instead, he believes in giving his complete attention to whatever he is doing at a particular moment.
When he is at work, his focus remains on his official responsibilities. At home, he shifts his attention to his family.
The same approach appears to guide his new cinematic venture.
His Message to Young People About Social Media
Kumar also had a word of caution for young people navigating social media.
While acknowledging that platforms such as Instagram and Facebook can provide useful information, he warned against allowing them to turn into an addiction.
His advice: knowing when to start is important, but knowing when to stop and move towards the next goal is equally essential.
For Kumar, Devyani appears to be another extension of that philosophy — using a new platform, but with a larger purpose beyond entertainment.
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