A Heartfelt Reminiscence

In the aftermath of the recent passing of veteran actor Rituraj Singh, his close friend, actor Anup Soni, reflects on their enduring bond that spanned decades. Expressing profound shock and sadness, Soni reveals his disbelief upon learning about Singh’s pancreatic illness, a revelation that left him reeling with emotion.

A Chance Encounter

Recalling their initial meeting, Soni reminisces about encountering Singh during his first year at the National School of Drama (NSD). Witnessing Singh’s performance in a play alongside luminaries like Barry John and Manoj Bajpayee left an indelible impression on Soni, setting the stage for their future connection.

A Journey in Mumbai

As both actors transitioned to Mumbai to pursue their acting careers, their paths intertwined further. Collaborating on projects like “Safar,” Soni found himself under Singh’s mentorship, guided by the veteran actor’s wisdom and generosity. Despite Soni’s newcomer status, Singh treated him as an equal, fostering a bond rooted in mutual respect and shared theatrical backgrounds from NSD.

Mentorship and Camaraderie

Singh’s influence extended beyond professional advice, transcending hierarchical boundaries to cultivate a genuine friendship with Soni. From addressing each other as peers rather than senior and junior to sharing anecdotes and laughter, their camaraderie flourished over the years, symbolizing the essence of true friendship.

A Lasting Impression

Even as their paths diverged, Soni cherishes their recent collaboration on the set of “Satyamev Jayate,” where they reminisced about old times during breaks in filming. For Soni, Singh’s presence was a constant source of comfort and familiarity, a testament to the enduring nature of their bond.

Conclusion

Rituraj Singh’s untimely departure has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his legacy lives on through cherished memories and heartfelt tributes from friends like Anup Soni. As the industry mourns the loss of a talented actor and cherished friend, Soni’s reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of genuine connections forged in the world of entertainment.