Exclusive:”I would love to direct Shah Rukh Khan & Salman Khan” – Sonu Sood

Sonu Sood is one of the most loved actors of Bollywood. Not only is he known for his acting skills, but his effort to help those in need uncondionally during the pandemic left a huge mark on the hearts of the mango people. On the work front, Sonu marks his directorial debut with the recently released film Fateh. The actor also plays a crucial part in the film, moreover, the film also stars Jacqueliene Fernandez, Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Vijay Raaz and more in pivotal roles. The film is an action entertainer and promises to keep you on the edge of your seat throughout. We spoke to the actor as he graced our Digital Cover, he got candid about his directorial debut, wanting to direct the Khans and being called Man of the Masses. 

What’s it like to be the Man of the Masses? Do you ever feel the weight of it?

I feel blessed to have been called that, I feel that it’s something that connects me with the common man. It motivates me to think that one might believe in my ability to do something to bring about a change, and smile on an unknown face. The responsibility I feel to make things happen for the good of people is a blessing indeed.

You have willingly helped several people during covid and continue to do so… what drives you to be this way?

I believe that “hope” and “effort” are two words which are important for my personality or my moto to live life by, in general. When people do not have that faith in you, there’s no point in calling yourself successful. When a common man strongly believes that I can do something good, it really keeps me going.

Your film Fateh marks your directorial debut. How was the experience of working on a film as a director ?

For me Fateh is not a direction, but an experience in itself. I have truly lived that film. I came to know about a lot of people who were facing issues related to cybercrime, which is why I made this film. It was a special experience for that itself, but as an actor it gave me a medium to bring my vision into reality. I could work on the action sequences with a creative liberty.

What changes when you act and direct the film together?

The perception as an actor can be brought to life with the ability to direct. Since my perception was clear, I did my job as an actor and directed my way through by making a film as important, to me, as Fateh.

What made you want to don the hat of a director?

What made me don the hat as a director, even though it comes with a lot of responsibility on your shoulders to create something new, was the fact that I had a narrative in my head for what I personally wanted to show the world. Fateh was my first film, and I am still learning to be honest. I wanted to show how Hindi films can be at par with Hollywood action.

How was it working with Jacqueliene, shed some light on your equation with her?

Working with Jacqueline was truly special. I had imagined her role, even her appearance without make up, in a certain way for the character I wanted to show and fit in the story of the hero “Fateh”. She did full justice to the ask of the film and made it look ideal. She and her character were “the girl next door” in this narrative.

If given a chance which Bollywood actors would you love to direct?

I would love to direct Shah Rukh Khan, or Salman Khan, since I share a great chemistry with them.

What’s the one thing your the most proud about when it comes to your journey in showbiz?

I am humbled and honored to have become a person people in need can reach out to, I have many people visit my house and if I can help them, it gives me a sense of achievement as an individual, and actor, both.

What are you looking forward to in 2025? What’s next for Sonu Sood?

This year is special and will continue to be a memorable one with my beginning as a director. Writing and creating is my interest, and i hope to continue making something special.