MUMBAI: There are thousands of actors who play supporting roles to the protagonists, give the film a new lease of credibility, and are as, if not more, talented than the main leads. However, they do not receive as much fame and stardom as they deserve. In our Casting Call segment, we present a list of some of the most significant Indian television, web, and Bollywood actors who we hope eventually get their due in the future.

TellyChakkar got in touch with the handsome Sonu Pathak who is making the audience love, laugh, and cry with his performance in Star Bharat’s Pyar Ke Papad. In the interview, Sonu spoke at length about his struggle, career switches, friendships, and passion for his craft. Read on.

How did you get into acting?

I belong to a middle-class family with no filmy background. I got my first appearance on television through a reality show on a regional channel in 2011. Because my first step was into regional, it took me a few years to get into the mainstream of the industry. Those few years of my life, I was exposed
to a lot of struggle. I feel blessed for the struggle that I went through, as it has been instrumental in making me realize the talent that I have.

What projects have you been a part of? 

I used to do stand-up comedy and gags for regional channels at the beginning of my career. There was a phase when there were lack of work opportunities. That’s when I got into direction and worked as an assistant director in regional films. Later, I worked for a few projects on Big Magic. I also anchored an entertainment bulletin for a leading news channel, which gave me the opportunity to interact with Salman Khan. I got good recognition from that show. In the year 2018,  I was in front of Farah Khan in Dance India Dance Li’l Champ, where I did a guest appearance and got a standing ovation for mimicking various Bollywood artists. After so many twist and turns, finally, I am into acting in Pyaar Ke Papad. I took 8 years to get into acting. These 8 years of struggle brought confidence that I can write, direct, do stand-ups, even host big shows.

How difficult is it to survive in an expensive city like Mumbai?

It is very difficult to survive in Mumbai if you have no good friends. I had gone through a phase with zero money in my pocket. I have also struggled for rent and conveyance. It is very common in this line, but I was lucky that I have some good friends. Because of their presence, it was easy for me to face these situations.

Are actors paid well?

It depends on the lifestyle of the actor and their needs. As I am a non-alcoholic person and not a party animal, from my point of view, I am getting good pay where I am enjoying my life at best.

Your tip to aspiring actors?

Never ever compromise on your dream at any cost.  It’s better to leave this industry than not do good work. Never make your first step the last. And last but not least, according to me, without a good friend circle, you cannot achieve anything.

Hats off, Sonu! Good luck for your upcoming projects.