Sooraj Pancholi Opens Up About Podcast Culture and Harrowing Jail Experience

In a recent appearance on a popular podcast, actor Sooraj Pancholi shed light on a growing trend in the entertainment industry—celebrities paying to appear on podcasts. Pancholi, who recently returned to the screen with Kesari Veer alongside Suniel Shetty, also reflected on his long legal battle and time spent in jail, offering an emotional glimpse into his personal journey.

The actor, acquitted in 2023 from the high-profile Jiah Khan death case, appeared candid and relaxed during the conversation, even sharing a light moment about podcast economics.

“I have heard that there are a few actors who charge about ₹30 lakh to do a podcast. Is this true? I am just wanting to know because I have come here for free. Pay me at least ₹30,000,” he joked.

In response, the hosts laughed, acknowledging how the dynamic has shifted. Sooraj replied, “Yes, I have heard that too, that the podcasters who have good viewership charge ₹30 lakh to get you on their podcast. I have received such offer too. But it makes sense as they give you viewership. They have put immense hard work to grow their page so I think why not.”

While the banter offered a lighter note, the actor also took a deeply personal turn, revisiting the trauma of his time in prison. Sooraj recounted the emotional toll of being placed in a high-security cell, typically reserved for dangerous criminals.

“They put me where they put Ajmal Kasab. I didn’t even have a pillow; I’d sleep on newspapers. They treated me terribly, like I’d committed some horrible crime. I’m not exaggerating. It was only after four or five years that I understood what I’d been through. It felt like a dream when it was happening. The CBI investigation happened… They kept me in the ‘anda cell’. It was difficult,” he said.

The actor’s comments have sparked conversation not only about celebrity media culture but also about the mental health challenges faced by those entangled in long-drawn legal proceedings.

With Kesari Veer marking his return to the silver screen, Pancholi appears focused on rebuilding his career and sharing his truth, both on and off camera.