‘A little rest is dignity’: Bollywood actor Sonu Sood urges airports and hotels to provide seating for staff

Dubai: Actor Sonu Sood has called on airports, hotels and hospitality businesses to provide proper seating for employees who spend long hours standing while serving customers, saying a little rest should be a matter of dignity rather than a privilege.

In a message shared on his Instagram Story, the actor highlighted the physical demands placed on employees working at airport counters, lounges, hotel receptions and service desks.

He pointed out that many workers remain on their feet for 10 to 12 hours a day while continuing to serve customers with a smile.

"We see staff standing for 10-12 hours at counters, lounges, receptions and service desks, serving us with a smile. Have we ever thought about how exhausting this must be?" he wrote.

Sood appealed to airport authorities, lounge operators, hotels and the wider hospitality industry to introduce suitable seating arrangements, including high stools, for employees.

He also suggested that staff should be allowed to take short breaks whenever their responsibilities permit.

"I strongly believe providing mandatory high stools or proper seating arrangements, allowing them to rest whenever work permits, should become a basic workplace standard," he added.

The actor stressed that businesses should consider the comfort and well-being of their employees alongside the experience they offer customers.

"Hospitality is about making others comfortable. Let's not forget the comfort of those who serve us. A little rest is not a privilege. It's a matter of dignity and humanity," he said.

Beyond his film career, Sood has earned recognition for his humanitarian efforts, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, when he helped arrange transport for stranded migrant workers returning home.

Through his charitable initiatives, he has also supported people seeking medical treatment, education and emergency assistance. His work has continued to focus on helping individuals and families facing financial and personal difficulties.

Sood was last seen in the Tamil film Madha Gaja Raja (2025). His last Hindi film was Fateh, which marked his directorial debut.