Mumbai: Hi Zindagi aims to realistically and emotionally portray how men, too, can be victims of exploitation and injustice—a theme seldom explored in Indian cinema. One of the lead actresses described the film as a realistic and emotional story that “sheds light on a man’s struggle for justice and dignity in a judgmental society.” The film stars a talented ensemble cast including Garima Singh, Gaurav Singh, Ayushi Tiwari, Somi Shree, and Deepanshi Tyagi.
“Films are never made by one person alone,” said director Ajay at the press conference for his upcoming film Hi Zindagi. Expressing heartfelt gratitude, he credited Sunil Kumar Agrawal as the “true backbone” of the project — both as producer and creative collaborator.
“Even if my name appears as a co-producer, it is Sunil ji’s support and vision that made this film possible,” Ajay said.
The film tackles a sensitive and rarely discussed subject — gender neutrality in Indian law, particularly in cases of sexual assault and domestic violence.
A Legal Perspective Behind the Story
Producer Sunil Kumar Agrawal, who is also an advocate, shared that the film was inspired by the new criminal laws introduced on July 1, 2024, when the Indian Penal Code (IPC) was replaced by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
“Under the BNS, Section 63 replaces the old IPC Section 376,” Agrawal explained. “But the law still assumes that only a man can commit sexual assault against a woman. Adult men are not protected, and that gap is what inspired me to raise this issue through cinema.”
He added that while minors of both genders are legally protected, adult males are not.
“Equality should exist not just socially but legally as well,” he said.
Judicial Endorsement of the Idea
Agrawal noted that in September 2025, India’s former Chief Justice of India echoed the same concern, stating that the country’s criminal laws are not gender-neutral and require reform.
“When the Chief Justice highlighted exactly what I had observed a year earlier, it confirmed the importance of this subject,” he said.
Realistic and Thought-Provoking
According to the cast, Hi Zindagi portrays how men, too, can be victims of exploitation and injustice — a theme rarely explored in Indian films.
One of the lead actresses described the project as “realistic and emotional,” saying that it “sheds light on a man’s struggle for justice and dignity in a judgmental society.”
Giving Newcomers a Platform
Director Ajay, known for supporting emerging talent, spoke about his decision to cast newcomers instead of big stars.
“Big names don’t guarantee success anymore — strong stories do. I believe in giving chances to new artists who bring passion, honesty, and energy,” he said.
He reflected on how Indian cinema has evolved from formula-based storytelling to more meaningful and realistic narratives:
“Today’s audience connects with truth. They want relevance, not repetition.”
Music and Release Plans
Adding to the film’s emotional depth is a devotional song dedicated to Lord Krishna, titled “Kanha Ki Murli Baaje.” The music director revealed it took nearly a year to compose and produce, noting that the song “carries deep emotion and spirituality.”
Produced under the banners C.R. Films Productions and Sunil Aggarwal Films, Hi Zindagi is scheduled for a nationwide theatrical release on October 31, 2025, followed by potential distribution on OTT platforms.
Producer Agrawal clarified that while Hi Zindagi draws from true incidents and legal loopholes, it is not based on any one real-life case.
“The story is inspired by reality but not lifted from it. It reflects the silence and stigma that many men face when they are wronged,” he explained.
With Hi Zindagi, the makers aim to ignite a long-overdue national dialogue on gender equality before the law — a reform they say is vital for a fairer society.
