Suniel Shetty Recalls Being Told to Sell Idli-Vada After Debut Success

Actor Suniel Shetty made a successful debut in 1992 with the action film Balwaan. 

But even though the movie was a hit, a top film critic wrote badly about him. 

The critic said Suniel was a “bad actor” and even suggested he should sell idli-vada (a South Indian snack) instead of acting.

In an interview to the media, Suniel said the critic was trying to insult him, but it didn’t hurt him. 

In fact, Suniel was proud of his roots. His family ran a South Indian restaurant, and that business helped pay for his and his sisters’ education. 

He shared how he used to clean tables, serve customers, and work in the kitchen. That experience made him who he is.

Before Balwaan, two of Suniel’s early films, Faulad and Aarzoo, got canceled. 

But his strong action image helped him land new roles. 

Today, he’s been in the film industry for more than 30 years and continues to act in new projects like Kesari Veer and Welcome to the Jungle.

Lessons Learned:

Stay proud of your roots. Suniel turned a critic’s insult into pride by embracing his background in the restaurant business.

Don’t let others define your worth. Even after harsh criticism, Suniel stayed confident and continued to work hard.

Early failures don’t mean the end. His first few films didn’t release, but he didn’t give up—and success followed.

Hard work builds strength. Suniel’s work in his family’s restaurant taught him discipline and humility that helped him in films.