MUMBAI: For actor Neel Samarthh, Father’s Day holds deep emotional significance. Currently seen in Sabse Bada Rupaiya on Atrangii and soon to appear in the web series Rose Garden, Neel says the day is a chance to reflect on everything his father has done for him over the years. Known for his roles in shows like Kundali Bhagya, Bahu Hamari Rajni Kant, Sapnon Ki Chhalaang, Yeh Hai Mohabbatein, and Bade Achhe Lagte Hain, Neel believes fathers quietly shape the people we become.
“For me, Father’s Day isn’t just another date — it’s a heartfelt reminder to pause and honour the strength, sacrifice, and quiet love that fathers give so selflessly. It’s not just about milestones, but those everyday moments — the silent support, steady guidance, and values they live by that shape us,” he says.
Since Neel lives in Mumbai and his parents in Nagpur, he usually spends Father’s Day away from his dad. “It’s never about one day or grand gestures. I offer heartfelt gratitude to the universe and thank God for blessing me with such a wonderful father. They say prayers hold more power than performative acts like cutting a cake or posting on social media — and I truly believe that.”
Sharing a treasured memory, he says, “One of my favourite childhood memories is our Sunday ritual — riding on my dad’s old Priya scooter with my brother, grabbing dahi-jalebi, and then watching Ramayan together as a family.”
Neel recalls how his father never let them feel a lack of anything. “He sacrificed his sleep, peace, and comfort to give us a beautiful life. What I’ve learned from him is this: no matter how tough life gets, never give up. I often wish I had even 10% of his unshakable confidence.”
Talking about his favourite on-screen father figure, Neel says, “Amitabh Bachchan sir in Mohabbatein, with his line ‘Parampara, pratishtha, aur anushasan…’ always reminded me of my father. That authority, that silence that spoke volumes — it was so much like my dad.”
He adds, “Whether it was Aarakshan, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, or Baghban, his roles always felt familiar. I’d joke with my mom, saying ‘Papa looks like Amitabh Bachchan — just a bit shorter!’ And laugh, saying, ‘If only height could still grow, I’d ask you to give Papa Complan!’ But seriously, my dad is the most handsome man in the world to me, and Bachchan sir’s roles mirrored the strength, discipline, and love I see in my father.”
Neel and his father still share a cherished ritual. “One thing my dad loves is when I press his feet. During those moments, the three of us — my mom, dad, and I — sit together and talk about our feelings, his journey, and everything in between.”
“Our conversations are a mix of deep emotion, laughter, and silly jokes. My dad and I often pull my mom’s leg. It’s a small ritual, but it means the world to me. I truly wish I could keep doing this forever — just sitting with them, talking, laughing, and soaking in those beautiful moments.”
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