In a striking tale of the highs and lows of Bollywood, actor Savi Sidhu, once a familiar face alongside stars like Akshay Kumar and Dharmendra, now finds himself working as a watchman to make ends meet. The 48-year-old actor, who made his debut in 1995 with the film Taaqat, has recently come into the limelight for his struggles after fading from the film industry.
Savi Sidhu's career began with promise; he shared the screen with notable actors and appeared in several films, including the well-received Patiala House (2011) and Arrambam (2013). Despite his appearances in major films, Sidhu has primarily been cast in supporting roles, which, while significant, did not afford him the same recognition as his leading counterparts.
His journey through the industry has been marked by both triumphs and tribulations. Sidhu's career took off after he worked with renowned filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, who directed him in Black Friday (2004) and Gulaal (2009). However, not all collaborations were fruitful; he starred in a Kashyap film titled Paanch, which was never released. This setback became a recurring theme in Sidhu's career as he struggled to find consistent work.
After the release of Bewakoofiyaan in 2014, Sidhu's appearances dwindled. The film, which starred Ayushmann Khurrana and had a budget of 22 crores, failed to perform at the box office, marking a turning point in Sidhu's career. With fewer opportunities coming his way, he gradually faded from the public eye.
By 2019, Sidhu was spotted in Lokhandwala, Mumbai, working as a security guard, a role that shocked many of his fans and colleagues. He has been reported to work 10-12 hours a day to support himself, a far cry from the glamorous life he once led in the film industry.
In interviews, Sidhu has opened up about the personal tragedies that contributed to his current situation. He revealed that he lost his wife, parents, and mother-in-law within a short span, leaving him to navigate life alone. "The hardest time in my life was when I lost my wife," he shared, indicating the emotional toll these losses took on him. With no family support and financial constraints, he had no choice but to take up the watchman job.
Despite his struggles, Sidhu has not been entirely forgotten by the industry. Following reports of his situation, several Bollywood personalities, including actors Rajkummar Rao and singer Mika Singh, expressed their support for him. Rao tweeted, "I will tell all my casting friends to reach out to you," highlighting the camaraderie that still exists within the film community.
Sidhu's story resonates with many in the industry, where the fickle nature of fame can lead to sudden and dramatic changes in fortune. While he once enjoyed a measure of success, the harsh realities of life in Bollywood have brought him to a point where he must work to survive. His experience serves as a reminder of the precariousness of a career in acting, where many talented individuals are left behind as trends and tastes evolve.
As he continues to work as a watchman, Sidhu remains hopeful for a return to acting. He has not completely given up on his dreams, expressing a desire to return to the silver screen. However, the journey back may be a long one, as he navigates the challenges of re-establishing himself in an industry that often forgets its stars.
In a world where many actors experience fleeting fame, Savi Sidhu's story is a poignant reminder of the human side of the entertainment industry. His resilience in the face of adversity is commendable, and while he may currently be living in obscurity, his past contributions to cinema remain a testament to his talent.
