Sanjay Suri calls his return to TV a "full-circle moment"

Sanjay Suri Reflects on Career Choices and Creative Fulfillment

Actor Sanjay Suri, who recently joined the TV show Juhi Mui, sees this as a "full-circle moment" in his career. Having started in television in 1997 before transitioning to films, Suri was drawn to the show for its socially relevant theme and manageable time commitment. “I kept myself away from longer commitments. This was a month-long commitment, and we’ve kept the track open so I can return when required. In cinema too, I’ve mostly been part of socially relevant films,” he explained.

Reflecting on his return to television after nearly three decades, Suri shared his early journey in the medium. He hosted the travel show Indian Holiday nearly 30 years ago, followed by leading roles in Yehi Toh Pyar Hai and the film Pyaar Mein Kabhi Kabhi, before his career shifted toward films and production. “So, this is like my ghar wapsi after 30 years,” he said.

Suri believes that the lines between television, films, and OTT platforms are increasingly blurring. “You’ve got to remain platform-agnostic and do the work you want to do, especially at this stage of my career,” he remarked. He clarified that his earlier absence from television was not due to a lack of interest but because he couldn’t commit to long-term projects while focusing on films.

Addressing the perception that film actors turn to television when opportunities dwindle, Suri dismissed the notion. “That could be someone’s perception. Even back in the day, I sat at home for two years and didn’t do anything. I’ve just had a release with Imtiaz Ali’s Main Vaapas Aaunga, have an upcoming OTT show, and will dabble in short films,” he stated.

Reflecting on his 27-year-long career, Suri acknowledged that while he doesn’t have a ₹100-crore blockbuster to his name, he takes pride in being part of films that have stood the test of time. “My aspirations have never been driven by panic or visibility,” he said, emphasizing that his choices have always been guided by creative fulfillment rather than mainstream benchmarks.

Suri also spoke about the challenges of working in a hero-driven industry, recalling his experience with the commercial film Tera Jadoo Chal Gayaa. “In those days, cinema was very hero-driven. Either you’re the lead, or you’re reduced to nothing. I said, ‘Okay, I’ll play on my T20 ground.’ I don’t mind being a brick in the wall, but if you take that brick out, it should make an impact,” he explained.

As a producer, Suri has focused on storytelling rather than financial gain. His film I Am became one of the largest crowdfunded projects in India and went on to win a National Award, which he described as deeply gratifying.