Sooraj Pancholi talks about actors getting films despite 15 flops in Bollywood: 'I really want to prove everybody wrong'

Sooraj Pancholi, son of actors Aditya Pancholi and Zarina Wahab, made his acting debut with the 2015 romantic action movie 'Hero'. He later appeared opposite Megha Akash in the 2019 action drama 'Satellite Shankar'. Recently, in his first podcast after being acquitted following a 12-year legal battle, Sooraj expressed doubts about Bollywood offering second chances and described himself as a newcomer to the industry.Doubts About Bollywood as a ‘Second Chance Industry’Talking to Bollywood Bubbles, Sooraj discussed the idea of second chances in Bollywood and expressed doubt that the industry truly functions as a "second chance industry." He noted that many actors have faced numerous failures-sometimes as many as 15 flops-yet continue to receive new film offers.Drawing inspiration from Arnold Schwarzenegger’s life story, Sooraj highlighted how Arnold endured a difficult struggle trying to break into Hollywood, but eventually, one breakthrough film transformed his career, making him a global superstar. He believes that in life, whether it’s a second, third, fourth, or fifth opportunity, the film industry is just one part of the bigger picture, and life itself presents many chances in various forms.Facing Stigma and Staying MotivatedAddressing the stigma he faces following his legal battle, Sooraj admitted that such judgment is inevitable and will always persist. However, he views this as a driving force, pushing him to work twice as hard as before. He shared, “I have to really perform and deliver twice as much as I could before. And in a way, it’s good, because it’s kept me so motivated. I really want to prove everybody wrong.” While acknowledging that he still has much to learn about his craft, Sooraj remains hopeful that with a few more films, he will reach a strong and successful phase in both his personal and professional life.Starting Fresh: A Newcomer’s MindsetSooraj described himself as a newcomer, feeling like he is starting fresh all over again. He emphasized that he has taken care of his mind, body, soul, and energy to prepare himself for this new beginning. For him, meditation meant going to the gym and sweating it out through weight training, boxing, and following a strict diet, which served as his way to relieve stress. He recommended this approach to anyone experiencing anxiety, stress, sleepless nights, or depression, explaining that sweating it out helps release not just calories but also stress. He believes this routine significantly reduces anxiety. Additionally, Sooraj mentioned that he continues to pray internally, often chanting “Har Har Mahadev” as a source of inner strength and calm.