The Paradise: Raghav hails Nani as mentor and emotional anchor

Nani-starrer ‘The Paradise’, directed by Srikanth Odela, released in theatres on Thursday to a mixed response from critics. The film also stars Raghav Juyal in a significant role. On Saturday, the actor shared a long, emotional note for Nani on Instagram, opening up about how the actor never made him feel small and how he genuinely listened to and understood him.Sharing the note on Instagram, Raghav wrote, "There are very few people in life who become your safe place without even knowing it. For me, Nani dada is one of those people. I’ve tried many times to put into words what you mean to me, and honestly, I still don’t think words will ever be enough."

He also wrote about the deep respect and affection he holds for Nani, both as an actor and as an individual. According to Raghav, the industry can often be a chaotic and uncertain space, and there were phases when he felt utterly directionless.

But through it all, Nani was someone he could always count on at those crossroads.He wrote, "Dada, you’ve sat me down and spoken to me for hours. About cinema, about my career, about life, and sometimes about nothing in particular. You’ve heard me and understood me. You’ve never made me feel small for being confused or emotional. And somehow, after talking to you every time, the weight on my heart feels a little lighter."

Raghav Juyal on Nani being his constant support

In his note, the dancer-turned-actor also revealed that Nani has always understood him and offered him clarity, guiding him towards the kind of films he actually wants to work on.He added, "I admire your craft, your mind, your honesty, your kindness and, more than anything, the person you are when nobody is watching. But beyond all of that, I'm just incredibly grateful that life gave me someone like you during a time when I needed that kind of person.

Nani dada, I hope you know how much you mean to me."Raghav also thanked Nani for always answering his calls, patiently listening to him and talking to him for hours whenever he felt lost."Some people mentor your career. Some people quietly hold your heart together. You have done both for me. I love you, Nani dada. More than I probably ever say," the note concluded.

'The Paradise' box office collection so far

As per reports, ‘The Paradise’ raked in Rs. 11.60 crore net during its paid previews on Wednesday, followed by a strong Rs. 34.65 crore net on its opening day, Thursday. However, collections dipped on Friday, with the film earning Rs. 14.90 crore net.So far, ‘The Paradise’ has amassed a total of Rs. 61.15 crore net in India.