Juhi Babbar Soni Celebrates Theatre Milestone and Shares Personal Insights
Actress and playwright Juhi Babbar Soni, who recently performed in Ahmedabad for her acclaimed production With Love, Aap Ki Saiyaara, has expressed a profound affection for the city. She highlights that Ahmedabad holds a special place in her heart due to the cherished relationships she maintains there.
"Ahmedabad is my absolute favorite city in India," Juhi states emphatically. "A city's essence is truly shaped by its inhabitants, and I am fortunate to have some of my most beloved people residing here." Her connection runs deep, with a tight-knit network of friends and family that makes every visit meaningful.
Record-Breaking Success in Hindi Theatre
Reflecting on her play, Juhi explains that With Love, Aap Ki Saiyaara delves into contemporary societal perceptions of modern Indian women. "The narrative challenges audiences to examine their own modernity," she elaborates. "It's not about criticizing men but rather questioning ingrained mentalities. By God's grace, this play has shattered all existing records in Hindi theatre."
The production has achieved an impressive milestone, completing its 127th show over four and a half years and reaching over 46 cities across India. "For Hindi theatre to accomplish such numbers in a diverse country like ours is monumental," Juhi remarks. "This is undoubtedly the best era to be involved in theatrical arts."
Sacred Pre-Show Rituals and Inspirations
Juhi maintains a deeply personal ritual before each performance. "I always bow to the stage and the earth before stepping onto the platform," she shares. "Regardless of how dirty the floor might be, I touch it fully with my right hand and then rub the dust over my face and hair. This act symbolizes my complete unity with the stage."
In these moments, she also honors her parents, veteran actors Raj Babbar and Nadira Babbar, whom she regards as her primary guides and sources of inspiration. "They are my gurus, and their legacy fuels my creative journey," she adds with reverence.
Philosophy of Selective Artistic Endeavors
With a distinguished career spanning theatre, writing, and direction, Juhi adheres to a strict principle of pursuing only projects that foster personal fulfillment. "I simply do not have time for work that fails to bring me joy or facilitate growth as an individual, performer, and creative mind," she asserts. "If a project doesn't resonate on that level, I choose not to invest my energy."
This selective approach extends to her roles in films and OTT platforms. "I tend to decline more screen offers than I accept," Juhi notes. "I cherished my part in The Great Shamsuddin Family (2025) and found Faraaz (2023), directed by Hansal Mehta, deeply meaningful. While I am currently in discussions for several projects, I will only commit to those that genuinely make me happy."
Upcoming Ambitious Musical Production
Juhi is eagerly preparing for her most ambitious venture yet, a grand musical titled KrishnPriya — Jiski Radha, Uski Meera. "This third play imagines a fictional encounter between Radha and Meera," she reveals. "It's a massive production featuring music by renowned artists like Sukhwinder, Anup Jalota, Amit Trivedi, Salim-Sulaiman, Kavita Seth, and Achint Marwah, with lyrics contributed by Kausar Munir, Sameer ji, and others."
Humorous Anecdote About Film Title
Juhi recounts a light-hearted exchange with filmmaker Mohit Suri when his movie Saiyaara was announced, sharing a title similarity with her play. "My play predated his film, and since Mohit's sister and I were classmates, I messaged him, 'Mohit, your film is sure to be a hit because this name is blessed.' I jokingly wish I had gotten something in writing that day—maybe a couple of crores!" she laughs.
Through her dedication, Juhi Babbar Soni continues to make significant contributions to Indian theatre and entertainment, always guided by her core values of authenticity and artistic satisfaction.
