Every year, when Ganpati Bappa arrives at Sonu Sood’s home, the festival brings not only the joy of celebration but also memories spanning 26 years. It is a bond that began during the actor’s difficult days of struggle in Mumbai. When Sood first came to the city with dreams of making a name for himself, he made a personal promise to Bappa and resolved to bring the deity home. Even after all these years, the tradition continues with the same faith and devotion.

For Sood, Bappa is not merely a deity he worships but also a companion who stood by him during difficult times, inspired him to move forward and taught him to look at life with a sense of purpose. In an exclusive conversation with Hindusthan Samachar on the occasion of Ganpati celebrations, Sood spoke openly about his spiritual journey, his commitment to social service and his evolving perspective on the world of cinema.

Sonu Sood recalled that when he first arrived in Mumbai, he faced numerous challenges. It was during this period that he decided to bring Ganpati Bappa home and try to follow the path shown by him. According to Sood, 26 years have passed since then, and Bappa has continued to visit his home every year. He considers it a deeply meaningful tradition that has consistently inspired him to move forward in life. Sood said his only prayer is that he should continue to follow the path shown by Bappa throughout his life.

Speaking about the atmosphere at home during Ganpati celebrations, Sood said Bappa’s arrival brings not only happiness but also an opportunity for loved ones to come closer. Family members, friends and close associates gather at his home during the festivities. According to Sood, in today’s busy lifestyle, having everyone come together is special in itself. For him, Ganpati celebrations provide an opportunity to once again experience the warmth of relationships and a sense of togetherness.

Recalling his 26-year journey, Sood said that when he came to Mumbai, nobody knew him and he had arrived in the city determined to establish his identity. He said life has taught him many lessons over the years, while Bappa has continued to guide him. Sood views Ganpati not only as Vighnaharta, the remover of obstacles, but also as a source of inspiration that encourages people to become useful to others. He believes that being able to help those in need and bring a positive change to someone’s life is one of the most beautiful forms of Bappa’s blessings.

Sood said that for him, serving society and helping people is more than a social responsibility. He considers it part of the lessons he has received from Ganpati Bappa. He believes that if one person can reduce another person’s difficulties, there can be no greater achievement. The satisfaction he derives from helping people is also deeply connected to his faith in Bappa.

Speaking about his new journey in filmmaking and direction, Sood said he does not want to restrict himself to any particular kind of cinema. His work so far and the response from audiences have taught him many valuable lessons. As a director, he wants to incorporate these experiences and the insights gained from audience feedback into his upcoming films. His aim is to present stories that reflect his own creative vision.

Sood revealed that he had worked extensively on Fateh and is now working on a film titled Nandi. He said he spent around 16 months developing the screenplay for the project. During this period, he tried to understand different aspects of filmmaking, from writing and direction to sound production.

According to Sood, he wants to continue growing as a creative individual and use filmmaking and direction to bring different kinds of stories to audiences in his own distinctive style.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar