Actor Rahul Roy, who rose to fame through Aashiqui (1990), broke his silence after a wave of social media chatter around his recent Instagram reels and responded with a note.

The clips, made with content creator Dr Vanita Ghadage Desai, had left some viewers worried, while others openly mocked the actor. 

For many, it was surprising to see a star once linked closely with the blockbuster film in such informal or as some said, 'awkward' online videos.

Reacting to trolling the 60-year-old posted a statement on Instagram, in which he spoke about money troubles and legal cases that he says have been ongoing for years.

“I do my work with honesty and modesty. I have some legal matters to pay for, and these are not from today—they are from before the brain stroke happened,” Rahul wrote.

He did not hold back when addressing those making fun of him.

“If you mock my simplicity or make fun of my struggles, it says less about me and more about you. If you are truly so concerned, then help me find some genuine and decent work so I can pay for these cases. At least I am earning through hard work, not by mocking others.”

He also mentioned his medical condition, “And after the brain stroke, it is important for me to stay active… Yes, it may hurt a little sometimes, but you cannot break me.”

The reels themselves, including one set to the song Tere Dar Pe Sanam from Phir Teri Kahaani Yaad Aayi, quickly spread online. Some called them “cringe”. Others said the reaction was too harsh.

In the comments under his post, famous celebrities of Bollywood came to support him. 

Filmmaker Farah Khan wrote, “Good luck to you Rahul.” Actor Sonu Sood added, “Keep Rocking Brother.” 

Veteran actor Anupam Kher commented, "You are the BESTEST." Actress Shilpa Shirodkar commented, "We must to do what we have to do Rahul let the others do the talking All the best to you forever."

Messages from Nikitin Dheer, Tina Datta, Karanvir Bohra, Tannaz Irani, Vatsal Sheth, Apurva Agnihotri and Mahhi Vij echoed the same tone.

In 2020, Roy suffered a brain stroke while shooting in Kargil and underwent a long recovery. He was last seen in Agra, directed by Kanu Behl.