Sooraj Pancholi says he’s starting over after Jiah Khan case: ‘Jab itna jhel liya, toh aage bhi dekh lenge’ | Hindi Movie News

Sooraj Pancholi is stepping back into the spotlight after a long and difficult chapter in his life. The actor, who was acquitted last year in the abetment of suicide case related to the death of actor Jiah Khan, is making his return to the big screen with the period action drama Kesari Veer. At the trailer launch of the film, Sooraj got candid about his emotional struggles, how he stayed grounded, and the role his family played in helping him heal.
‘My heart is clean,’ says Sooraj
Reflecting on the turbulent past decade, Sooraj said, “Dekho, dil saaf hai mera… aur jo log mujhe jaante hai, woh jaante hai ki mera dil saaf hai.” (Look, I have a clean heart… and the people who know me, know that.) He spoke about how the support from his mother Zarina Wahab and sister was what kept him going. “They never let me lose hope,” he added.
The actor, who made his Bollywood debut in 2015 with Hero, had been largely absent from the big screen since his last theatrical release in 2021. He explained that the break wasn’t something he chose, but something life demanded. “Many things had to be cleared from my life,” he said. “My mother always told me — achhi cheezein time leti hain. (Good things take time.) I was waiting for the right film, and I believe Kesari Veer is the one.”
Gym for the mind, not the body
Sooraj shared that staying mentally strong was a huge focus during the toughest times. While many assume his regular gym sessions were about physical fitness, the actor revealed otherwise. “People think I go to the gym for the body, but I go for my mind. It helped me stay focused and strong.”
Talking about his journey ahead, Sooraj said, “There’s a long way to go… jab itna jhel liya, toh aage bhi dekh lenge.” (If I’ve endured this much, I’ll face what’s ahead too.) He appeared calm and composed as he spoke, ready to start fresh without bitterness.
Directed by a yet-to-be-announced filmmaker, Kesari Veer also stars Suniel Shetty, Vivek Oberoi, and Akanksha Sharma. The period action drama promises grandeur, grit, and a powerful story, with Sooraj in a warrior avatar.

Back in 2013, Sooraj Pancholi’s life took a tragic turn when he was arrested after the death of his then-girlfriend Jiah Khan. The case garnered nationwide attention, especially after a note from Jiah, shared by her family, suggested their relationship had taken a toll on her. Sooraj consistently denied all allegations, maintaining his innocence and calling himself a scapegoat. After 22 days in jail, he was released on bail. In 2018, he was officially charged, and in April 2023, a special CBI court acquitted him due to lack of evidence.

Following the verdict, Sooraj posted on Instagram, writing, “The truth always wins,” with the hashtag #GodIsGreat.