Versatile actor Ajay Devgan has taken up the role of a social activist and is set to make the people aware of the litter problem in the country, urging them to keep the nation clean.

Ajay will do this through a short film, "Awakening", co-produced with his secretary Kumar Mangat. The actor, who is busy editing the film, will also make an appearance in it.

Directed by Faruque Kabir, the film will hit the small screen and big screen Friday.

When quizzed about his new role as a social activist, Ajay said: "It's just that I feel we should all become conscientious citizens. We must do our best in caring for and looking after our country.

"Last month, in London, a few of us were talking about our 26/7 (Mumbai rains last year) experiences and we thought why not send across a message to the people. It's a topical subject; it happened again this year."

Ajay's co-star in the film is six-year-old child Ajaan Ali Khan. The story focuses on the child and his parents who are trying to do their bit for society by picking up garbage from the streets.

"Our message is to show that if a six-year-old can learn from the 26/7 rains last year, why can't we elders be equally responsible? And it's not just for the people of Mumbai but also for the people all over India.

"Our message is clear: It could happen to any city in India," said Ajay, who feels the people and government need to work hand-in-hand.

"It is the responsibility of the citizens to look after their cities and keep the streets clean. What you do at home, you can do with your streets too. Do we throw rubbish inside our home? Then why do we do it outside?

"Yes, the government has to do its part in keeping the drains unblocked and preventing water blockage. But we also need to ensure that we don't keep throwing plastic bags, paper, and other litter on the streets, which clog up the drains. We can all help the government in our own little ways."