Mumbai: Actor Sonu Sood has stepped forward to support comedian and actor Rajpal Yadav after the latter surrendered at Tihar Jail in connection with a cheque-bounce case. Sood announced that he would offer Yadav a role in his upcoming film along with a signing amount to help him during the ongoing financial crisis.
Sood also appealed to filmmakers and members of the film industry to extend support to Yadav by offering work and advance payments, stressing the need for solidarity during difficult times.
Rajpal Yadav, a National School of Drama (NSD) graduate known for his performances in films such as Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Phir Hera Pheri, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Hungama, Partner and Chup Chup Ke, was sent to Tihar Jail after the Delhi High Court rejected his plea seeking additional time to repay dues in multiple cheque-bounce cases. The outstanding liability is estimated at nearly ₹9 crore.
The legal dispute dates back to 2010, when Yadav borrowed ₹5 crore from M/s Murali Projects Pvt Ltd to finance his directorial venture Ata Pata Laapata. The film failed commercially, leading to prolonged financial difficulties.
Speaking earlier to Bollywood Hungama, Yadav said he lacked the financial means to clear the dues and added that he had not received support from industry colleagues, remarking that “everyone is on their own” in the film industry.
In a post on X, Sonu Sood described Yadav as a talented actor who has made lasting contributions to Indian cinema. He urged producers and directors to come together to help him by offering signing amounts adjustable against future work, calling it a matter of dignity rather than charity.
“When one of our own is going through a tough phase, this is how we show we are more than just an industry,” Sood wrote, adding that the gesture should remind Yadav that he is not alone.
Fans widely praised Sood’s initiative on social media, with many calling it a meaningful act of solidarity and appreciation for Yadav’s contributions to comedy and cinema.
In its order, the Delhi High Court noted that Yadav was required to pay ₹1.35 crore in each of the seven cases filed against him and directed that the amount already deposited with the court’s registrar general be released to the complainant.
