In a candid weekend conversation with India Today, actor Sooraj Pancholi opened up about the response to his latest film Kesari Veer, the state of Bollywood, and his personal healing journey post-controversy.
Despite the film’s underwhelming box office performance, Sooraj received praise for his evolved performance. “My friends and family felt I’ve become more confident and expressive,” he shared, while adding he doesn’t dwell on compliments. “I’m already focusing on what’s next.”
A touching moment for Sooraj was a casual gesture from mentor Salman Khan, who called him over before the film’s release simply to take a photo. “It was spontaneous — just Bhai being Bhai,” he recalled warmly.
Sooraj, son of actors Aditya Pancholi and Zarina Wahab, was acquitted in 2023 in connection to the tragic death of actor Jiah Khan. When asked if the ordeal had left scars, he said honestly, “The damage is done. I’ve moved on for my own peace. I can’t change everyone’s opinion.”
On love, Sooraj was playfully evasive: “I don’t know… maybe. I’m not sure,” he said with a shy grin.
He also voiced concerns about the toxic environment in Bollywood, criticizing poor planning and internal clashes. “We’re releasing films alongside Hollywood blockbusters like Mission: Impossible. There’s no unity. Producers and actors are working against each other instead of building together.”
His solution? “Bring back kindness and personal connection. We’ve lost the ethics and unity this industry was built on.”
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