Actor Sonu Sood, who earned a massive fan following and admiration for helping migrant workers during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown in 2020, recently reacted to the rumours that said his humanitarian deeds were a stepping stone to make a political career.
In a recent interview, he revealed that he was offered posts such as chief minister, deputy chief minister, and a seat in Rajya Sabha. But, he refused them all, making it clear that he had no interest in pursuing a politics as a career.
"I was offered the position of Chief Minister. When I refused, they told me to become deputy chief minister. Some of the most influential people in the country were behind these offers, including a seat in the Rajya Sabha. They told me to take it and I don't need to fight for anything in politics, but just be with them," Sood said during the with Humans of Bombay, adding that it was an "exciting phase" as powerful people wanted to meet him and even encouraged him to make a difference.
Explaining the reason behind his reluctance to join politics, the actor said he wants to stay out of it as he doesn't want to "lose his freedom". He also said his disinterest in the field stems from his personal values.
"People join politics for two reasons: to earn money or to gain power. I'm not interested in either of them. If it's about helping people, I'm already doing that. I don't need to ask anyone for that right now. If I want to help someone, I do it on my own. I might become accountable to someone else, and that scares me. I like my freedom to help others without any strings attached. I fear losing my freedom," he said.
The actor further stated that when one starts gaining popularity they rise in life, but "at higher altitudes, oxygen levels are lower". "We want to rise, but how long you can sustain yourself up there is important," Sood said.
He also recalled being told by many people about the luxuries he would get if he were to assume a political role such as a house in Delhi, a significant government position, high security, and letterhead with a government stamp on it.
"That sounds great, and I like hearing it. But I'm not ready right now. Maybe a few years down the line, I might feel differently. Never say never...but right now there's still an actor-director left inside me. I'm not against politics and I respect politicians. I have friends who are doing great work," he added.
Sood's sister, Malvika, on the other hand had joined the Congress party in 2022. She also contested the assembly elections from Punjab's Moga seat, but was defeated by Aam Aadmi Party's Amandeep Kaur Arora.