Actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood has publicly expressed support for comedian Rajpal Yadav, who surrendered at Tihar Jail on Monday following a long-standing ₹9 crore debt and cheque-bounce case.
Yadav surrendered under a Delhi High Court order stemming from a 2010 loan he had taken for his film Ata Pata Laapata. The popular comedian has faced financial troubles for more than 10 years, culminating in his imprisonment.
Sood declared on social media that Yadav will appear in his next film, which is now being written. However, Sood provides more than job opportunities to Yadav. The actor requires industry backing to overcome his current challenges, according to Sood.
Sood called on producers, directors, and fellow actors to pay workers their full signing amounts rather than giving them free money. According to him, this method will allow Yadav to keep his dignity while he recovers financially.
Sood penned an emotional message explaining how life can bring unfair situations that people encounter in difficult moments. He emphasised that the film industry needs to support its members during tough times, as mutual backing in critical situations demonstrates that Bollywood functions as more than an entertainment business.
He wrote, “Rajpal Yadav is a gifted actor who has given years of unforgettable work to our industry. Sometimes life turns unfair, not because of talent, but because timing can be brutal. He will be part of my film, and I believe this is the moment for all of us..producers, directors, colleagues to stand together. A small signing amount, adjustable against future work, is not charity, it’s dignity. When one of our own is going through a tough phase, the industry must remind him he’s not alone. This is how we show we are more than just an industry.”
