Sanjay Dutt Opens Up: How Family, Rehab, and Fitness Helped Him Beat Addiction

A viral behind-the-scenes clip from Aatish (1994) shows Sanjay Dutt candidly discussing the grief of losing his mother Nargis, his battle with drug addiction, and the path to recovery that reshaped his life and career.

Sanjay Dutt has once again brought a deeply personal chapter of his life into the spotlight, thanks to a resurfaced clip from the sets of his 1994 film Aatish: Feel the Fire. In the video, the actor speaks openly about hitting rock bottom, seeking help from his family, and turning to fitness as a lifeline during his recovery. The footage captures Dutt admitting how he “saw [himself] dying” and how the shame, secrecy, and physical decline finally convinced him to make a change.

Dutt’s struggle with drugs began around 1980–81, when his mother, legendary actress Nargis, was gravely ill in New York. Her death, just days before his debut film Rocky (1981) released, left a deep impact on him and became the trigger for years of substance dependence. He underwent multiple stints in rehabilitation before eventually reclaiming his life and career.

In the viral clip, Dutt says he had grown “fed up with the idea of hiding, running and people looking down at me,” and sought help from his family. He also shared how working out became an essential part of his recovery journey: “There is nothing like working out… It gives a beautiful high better than anything else. There is no high better than life. Adrenaline is the biggest high in the world.”

Cast members of Aatish recall how fragile Dutt was during the shoot. Veteran actress Tanuja revealed that the director warned her not to physically touch him in a scene, highlighting the visible struggles he faced on set. Pooja Bhatt, who also starred in the film, described Dutt as protective yet sensitive, showing the softer side behind his public persona.

Recovery was a long and challenging process. Dutt’s sister, Priya Dutt, has mentioned that it took about three to three-and-a-half years for him to recover fully. He visited several rehab centers in Germany and India, and later spent nine months in the U.S., where intensive counseling helped him confront his grief and addiction. After these interventions, Dutt returned to India, permanently turned away from drugs, and rebuilt his personal life and acting career.

The resurfaced Aatish clip highlights not only the struggles Dutt faced but also the support system, therapy, and self-discipline that helped him survive and thrive. Today, he continues to inspire fans with his resilience, advocating healthier lifestyles and sharing insights about overcoming personal battles.