SANJAY’S PLAN HAS SUBSTANCE

The actor is “very keen” to spread awareness about the ill-effects of drug abuse; wants to partner with an existing NGO or launch his own to do the same

Of late, Sanjay Dutt has been in the news owing to the biopic on his life, starring Ranbir Kapoor. However, even before the Rajkumar Hirani directorial brings his journey alive on the big screen, HT Café has learnt that Dutt has a special plan in mind — he is “very keen” to spread awareness about the ill-effects of drugs. “In his life, Sanjay has experienced a lot of ups and downs, but now he wants to give back to society in his capacity as an actor and a public figure. He wants people to be mindful about the repercussions of drug abuse,” says an insider. Reportedly, the actor himself was a victim of substance abuse during his initial years in the industry. Apparently, the Munna Bhai MBBS (2003) actor wants to take up the cause for a “long period”. The insider adds, “Sanjay wants people, especially the youth, to understand how drugs and intoxication are not a solution to problems, and that it can affect someone’s life adversely. He feels he can hand-hold an addict, as he is aware of such a person’s state of mind.” Moreover, Sanjay also wants to share his personal journey and experiences on how he has come out, not just as a survivor, but also a winner (after going to a rehab in USA). Sanjay “actively wants to endorse this cause” and “not just lend his name and face” to it. “Therefore, he is also figuring out methods and ways to reach out to people, who inadvertently become a victim of substance abuse,” adds the insider. To achieve his objective, the actor is mulling over various options. As the first option, he is actively looking at existing NGOS and their work, and if he can partner with them. “He wants to be an active participant in furthering the cause. If he can’t zero in on an NGO, he might launch an organisation of his own,” says the insider. Sanjay couldn’t be reached for a comment.

PHOTO: REUTERS A still from Lage Raho Munna Bhai