Salil Ankola is a changed man. His life took a drastic turn when he had a run-in with substance abuse in the last decade. But it’s all in the past, since he is now gearing up for his second innings on television. The cricketer-turned-actor is playing Suryadev, Shani’s father on Colors’ upcoming show Karamphal Data Shani. He also underwent physical training for his look in the show. He says, “I bet my last penny that people will find this role extremely relevant. The show will keep the audiences glued to their seats because of its content.”
Salil has also bagged a film, Arbaaz Khan’s Tera Intezaar, which also stars Sunny Leone. He gushes, “This is the best phase of my life. I never thought I could get into films again.”
Having survived the bleak period, Salil attributes the fresh start to his wife, Ria Banerjee. Looking back at his struggle to overcome his addiction, he says, “My wife has been a rock solid support, even when I had an addiction. She brought me back to life. I wasn’t in touch with my father, mother and kids for a long time. She was the one who bridged the gap between us. She took charge of my life. Thanks to Ria, we are a close-knit family now.”
The actor is father to a 21-year-old son, but he doesn’t fear his son following in his footsteps. “My son has seen me going through my addiction. He is aware of its repercussions. I am sure he would never get into substance abuse in any way.”
Salil is open to the idea of having his life depicted on the big screen. In fact, he thinks Randeep Hooda can essay him best. He says, “I have nothing to hide. If you Google me, you will find everything about my life. In fact, Arbaaz also found my life interesting. He has been asking me to take it to the big screen. I am open to putting forth my truths, because I want people to learn the repercussions of addiction. If I can come out of it, any one can. Randeep Hooda can play me on celluloid.”
