But is still dreaming of butter naan, butter chicken and biryani
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; November 21, 2017)

Saqib Saleem, one of the latest additions to the Race 3 cast, has undergone a complete physical transformation. The self-confessed foodie trained hard to become fighting fit for the action-packed franchise. “It’s difficult for me to give up food but I had to get into shape because Race is an important film for me. It’s all about stunts and style. It took me four months of hard work but when I see the results, I feel it was worth all the effort,” smiles the 29-year-old actor.

The thought of what he’d treat himself to after the ongoing schedule in Mumbai keeps him motivated. “I’ve promised myself that the day we wrap up, I will gorge on butter chicken and butter naan. I’ve been missing murg makhani and biryani a lot so I will have one cheat meal before I get back to training for the twomonth schedule in Abu Dhabi. I’ve been spending two hours in the gym every day, and that includes yoga,” he informs. Speaking about his prep, he adds, “I’ve been doing action workshops on kicking and punching. I’m training with Rakesh Udiyar, who is also Salman Khan’s trainer, for the action portions.”

He remembers watching the first Race and says being part of an ensemble cast that includes Salman, Bobby Deol, Jacqueline and Daisy is a dream come true. “Remo sir (director Remo D’souza) is so humble and really takes care of his actors. After every action sequence he asks if we are alright,” says Saqib.