London: Indian actor Sonu Sood has been named the number one South Asian celebrity in the world for his philanthropic efforts during the course of the COVID-19 pandemic this year, in a first-of-its-kind ranking released in London on Wednesday.
The 47-year-old Bollywood star beat off tough global competition to top the ''50 Asian Celebrities in The World'' list, which is published by UK-based weekly newspaper ''Eastern Eye''.
It celebrates artists who made a positive impact with their actions or were inspiring in their own unique way and involved public input, with several social media posts collated for nominations.
"As the pandemic broke, I realised it was my duty to help my countrymen; it was an instinct that came from within," said Sood, expressing his gratitude for the honour, which recognised his far-reaching efforts at transporting and helping Indian migrant workers during the COVID-19 lockdown.
"Eventually, this was something I came to Mumbai for. It was my responsibility as an Indian, which I did. I think all the love of the people which I received was simply their wishes and prayers. Once again, I won't stop till my last breath," said Sood, who is behind box-office hits such as ''Dabangg'' and ''Simmba''.
''Eastern Eye'' entertainment editor Asjad Nazir compiled the list. He said Sood was a deserving winner because no celebrity did as much to help others during lockdown.
"What started off with the big-hearted Bollywood star helping impoverished migrant workers stranded by lockdown get back home, evolved into a spectacularly philanthropic mission that made a difference to so many during the pandemic," said Nazir.
"Whether it was paying for surgeries, donating food, setting up scholarships, campaigning for women''s rights, or buying a new tractor for a farmer so his daughters could study and not plough a field, super Sonu helped in countless ways in 2020. He fully deserves the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, which is handed out by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences,” he said.
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