Sudhanshu Pandey, who is known for his impactful performances across television and films, recently opened up about one of the most challenging chapters of his life — his silent battle with depression during the mid-2000s. In a candid conversation with The Free Press Journal, the Anupamaa star reflected on his struggle with panic attacks, the long road to recovery, and how faith ultimately guided him toward healing and transformation.
When Sudhanshu Pandey faced his darkest phase
The actor recalled that his mental health struggle began abruptly and without warning. He revealed that he initially had no idea what was happening to him — not even his doctors could diagnose it correctly. Sudhanshu described how he was rushed for tests after suffering a panic attack, but despite everything appearing normal, he felt he was spiralling into an emotional abyss. He said it was one of the most terrifying moments of his life, where he suddenly slipped into a deep, dark depressive state.Sharing how isolating the experience was, Sudhanshu likened it to floating alone in space — seeing the world from a distance but feeling completely detached from it. He eventually consulted a psychiatrist friend who prescribed medication, but Sudhanshu said he couldn’t continue taking it as it made him feel like a “zombie.” It took him years to realize that the situation wasn’t permanent and to tell himself that he was meant for “much bigger things.”
Finding light through faith and spirituality
Sudhanshu said his recovery began when he turned inward and surrendered to faith. Deeply spiritual, he credited his devotion to Lord Mahakal for giving him strength during that difficult time. Praying regularly, he said, gave him clarity and peace. “It took me four years to come out of it,” he shared, adding that the journey changed his outlook on life. He began to value people, relationships, and emotions more deeply — lessons he believes made him a better human being and actor.Calling it a “blessing in disguise,” Sudhanshu said that though the phase was painful, it led to profound self-awareness and emotional depth. “It made me look at life differently and helped me start my inward journey,” he said.
Working through the pain
Even while battling depression, Sudhanshu continued to work. He recalled shooting for Singh Is Kinng in 2007, while silently fighting his inner turmoil. During that time, fellow actor Ranvir Shorey — who had gone through something similar — offered him support and even shared an emergency pill to help him cope. “He was a lot of help,” Sudhanshu said, adding that talking to people who understood made a huge difference.Sudhanshu concluded by urging people to speak openly about their mental health. According to him, conversation and connection can often be the first step toward healing. “Talking is very important,” he emphasized. “When you’re going through something, you must talk because it really makes a lot of difference.”
