‘Real hero’: Somy Ali remembers Sanjay Dutt's equal respect for spot boys and crew

Somy Ali learned a big life lesson from Sanjay Dutt in her early days in the exciting but tough 1990s film world, full of dreams, egos, and strict job levels. As a new actress in films like Aatish and Andolan, she remembers how the cool, energetic icon taught her to treat everyone on set with equal respect, no matter their role or status.Sharing a nostalgic photo on social media, Somy wrote, ‘Sanju taught me to treat the film crew with respect and the boy who brings us tea with the exact same dignity. It is through Sanju that I learned how hierarchy is simply not his thing and it shouldn’t be for anyone else as well.’ Reflecting on her first shoot experience with Sanjay Dutt, she added, ‘Given my first shoot ever in Bollywood was with Sanju, I deem myself to be extremely fortunate. Be kind. Don’t envy people, uplift them by demonstrating kindness. I have never seen an actor of that kind of clout treating the director and the boy who brings us tea with a carbon copy of dignity as he did the entire crew. Now that’s a real hero.’ She further emphasised the importance of empathy, stating, ‘It is important to be kind primarily because you never know the hidden battles, grief, or exhaustion others are carrying behind their face.’Along with the heartfelt note, Somy shared an AI-created video showing her hugging a young Sanjay Dutt, with both appearing in their younger selves. For those unfamiliar, Somy Ali collaborated with Sanjay Dutt in the 1990s movie ‘Andolan’. In her short Bollywood phase, she starred in films like ‘Anth’, ‘Krishna Avtaar’, and ‘Teesra Kaun’, acting alongside top stars of the time. At her career's height, Somy left the film world behind and relocated to the United States. Today, she focuses her efforts on social work and activism.