The lessons that last a lifetime: Sony SAB artists honour the teachers and mentors who shaped their journeys on the occasion of Teacher’s Day

Teachers often leave an impact that extends far beyond the classroom shaping the way we think, work and navigate life. From encouraging us to believe in ourselves to teaching us the value of discipline, resilience and kindness, their lessons often stay with us long after our school and college years. This Teacher’s Day, Sony SAB artists Jiten Lalwani, Vivana Singh, Iqbal Khan, Gulki Joshi, Muskan Bamne, and Deeksha Joshi reflect on the teachers and mentors who influenced their journeys, sharing the life lessons they continue to carry with them.
Jiten Lalwani, who plays Dronacharya in Hastinapur Ke Veer shares, ““I feel fortunate to have had many Dronacharyas in my life, starting with my father, who taught me dedication, commitment, punctuality, and the importance of giving your time and love wholeheartedly. My father-in-law has also been a wonderful teacher in my life; he taught me to be friendly with everyone, stay observant, and even be more mindful about finances and investing wisely. Professionally, I have learnt immensely by observing senior actors like Sudhir Pandey ji, whose discipline and patience left a deep impression on me. And today, while playing Guru Dronacharya, I continue to learn from the young actors around me. I truly believe life itself is the greatest teacher, if you remain open and observant, every person you meet has something to teach you.”
Vivana Singh who plays Gandhari in Hastinapur Ke Veer says, “My parents have been my biggest gurus, shaping both my character and career. My mother taught me integrity through a childhood incident when I found a gold earring at school and took it home. She made me return it teaching me that doing the right thing always matters. My father guided my career encouraging me to pursue acting while ensuring I completed my education. Their faith, support and values gave me the strength to navigate life and this industry. My father taught me to find my path while my mother taught me to stay true to it.”
Iqbal Khan who plays Dr. Dev in Yaadein shares, “One of the most important teachers in my life has been my theatre teacher, Mrs. Aruna Ahluwalia. She played a very important role in shaping my understanding of acting and the discipline that comes with the craft. Her daughter, Kismet Ahluwalia, whom we lovingly call Biba, has also been a wonderful influence in my journey. I have immense gratitude for both of them and the role they have played in shaping me as an actor. Some teachers do not just teach you a skill, they leave you with an approach to your craft that stays with you for life.”
Muskan Bamne, who plays Shanaya in Pushpa Impossible, shares, “I have always considered my Chachu to be one of my biggest guides and mentors. From the beginning of my acting journey, he has been someone I could turn to for advice, whether it was about work or life. He has always encouraged me to stay grounded, work hard and never let success get to my head. Even when I am confused or unsure about a decision, his perspective helps me look at things more clearly. For me, having someone like him by my side has made a huge difference in my journey and his guidance is something I truly value.”
Deeksha Joshi, who plays Deepti in Pushpa Impossible, says, “I owe a lot of my philosophy in life to my college professors. The way I think, the way I approach situations and even the person I am today have been shaped by the lessons I learnt from them. Catrinel Dunca, Sarvar Ma’am and Susan Ma’am were particularly influential because they never just gave us answers; they encouraged us to question things, think independently and form our own opinions. That ability to question and develop my own perspective is something I continue to carry with me even today, and I’m incredibly grateful to them for that.”