Anup Soni: From Aspiring Actor to Crime Patrol Icon and Beyond

June 12, 2024

3 Minutes

Anup Soni, widely recognized as the host of the riveting television show Crime Patrol, embarking on a real-life crime exploration, attributes the show’s profound impact on his identity. However, his journey as an actor commenced long before he assumed this pivotal role.

Formative Years and Education

Soni’s formative years were spent in the vibrant city of Jaipur, where his passion for acting ignited. Immersed in the flourishing Hindi language, he discovered his inherent talent for the craft. Determined to hone his skills, Soni pursued his acting education at the renowned National School of Drama (NSD) in Delhi. The rigorous curriculum exposed him to a diverse array of dramatic techniques, significantly enhancing his abilities as an actor.

Struggles and Triumphs in Mumbai

After graduating from NSD, Soni relocated to Mumbai to pursue his acting aspirations. The journey was arduous, marked by countless hours of hard work and the uncertainty that permeated the entertainment industry. Soni tirelessly attended auditions, facing numerous rejections that tested his resolve.

A Heartbreaking Mishap

One particularly disheartening incident occurred while Soni was carrying a portfolio of his acting photographs. Caught in a torrential downpour, the plastic bag containing his portfolio ripped open, leaving his precious photos floating in the flooded streets. This moment of despair shook Soni to his core, leading him to question his decision to remain in Mumbai.

Rediscovering Determination

Despite the setback, the experience ignited a newfound determination within Soni. Unwavering in his pursuit, he left Mumbai and returned to Delhi. It was during this period that he stumbled upon a book that profoundly resonated with him, inspiring him to embrace new challenges and cast aside the familiar comforts of the past.

Acting Career Breakthrough

Rejuvenated and more determined than ever, Soni returned to Mumbai and enrolled in an acting school. His dedication paid off when he landed a significant role in the television series “Sea Hawks,” which soared to immense popularity at the time.

Gold Mother and Crime Patrol

The success of “Sea Hawks” paved the way for Soni’s entry into the world of cinema, with notable roles in films such as “God Mother” and “Gangajal.” However, his most significant breakthrough came with the television series “Crime Patrol.”

A Decade of Crime Patrol and Balika Vadhu

“Crime Patrol” became a nationwide sensation, with Soni hosting the show for over a decade. During the same period, he also portrayed a memorable character in the popular daily show “Balika Vadhu.”

Return to Films

Despite the immense success of “Crime Patrol,” Soni felt an unquenchable desire to re-enter the world of filmmaking. He secured roles in “Test Case” and other web series, allowing him to showcase his multifaceted acting abilities and re-establish his identity as an acclaimed actor.

The Journey of an Actor

Soni recognizes that an actor’s journey is a continuous one, without a definitive end point. The fiercely competitive industry demands constant evolution and a relentless commitment to improving one’s craft.

Advice for Aspiring Actors

For those contemplating a career in acting, Soni emphasizes the paramount importance of pursuing the craft for the sheer love of it, rather than being lured by the superficial allure of fame and fortune. Success, he cautions, is transient, but the skills and knowledge acquired will provide a solid foundation for a fulfilling career in the long run.