Actor Reshav Bhardwaj, who plays the role of Adarsh in Inspire Films’ Aukaat Se Jyada streaming on the YouTube channel Freshh Mint, says that the introduction of manual scavenging in the show brings up an interesting narrative. Manual scavenging is illegal in India but is still practiced across the country.
“Playing this character was a tough challenge for me mentally. I faced a sleeping disorder for a month. When I went into the field for research, it shattered me. It made me question why we, as humans, treat others this way. Just because their ancestors were harassed by society, why has this become a tradition for them?” he says.
Manual scavenging continues despite the 2013 ban, and many people from marginalized communities suffer because of it. Talking about the same, he says, “It is banned, but only on paper. No law or government can change this until society takes a step forward. Cinema is a mirror to society, and films like Aukaat Se Zyaada are steps towards positive change. Evolution doesn’t just mean new infrastructure; it means new thinking,” he says.
His role sheds light on the devastating effects of caste-based labor and social injustice. “After playing this character, I realized that 80% of our society and system is corrupt in its thinking. Aukaat Se Zyaada has changed my perspective. We are just visitors on this planet for a few years, so why are we fighting over caste and creed? There’s a very beautiful message in this show: use your consciousness while making any decision. Humans can think, we are not robots,” he says.
He adds, “Our makers have taken a step to raise awareness about these issues. Cinema is the easiest way to influence someone, and I’m glad Mr. Yash Patnaik (producer) has taken this step to educate people on this topic. I request society to treat others like their own family. Let’s make Earth a beautiful place again.”
