Bear Grylls has gone on several adventures in his life. But his outings with global Indian icons, from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to actor Ranveer Singh, have a special place in the survival expert’s heart.

“The warm welcome and love I always feel from Indian superstars, it makes me feel like an honorary Indian. They are always so kind. India is always so close to my heart — the fans, the spectacular wilderness, the amazing food and the kindest of people,” says Grylls, who found popularity with his show, Man Vs Wild.

He has made several visits to India, which include getaways in Kolkata and Darjeeling. In the past few years, he has been on adventures with Indian actors such as Ajay Devgn, Vicky Kaushal, Rajinikanth, Akshay Kumar, with Singh being the latest addition to his list with Netflix’s interactive show, Ranveer vs Wild With Bear Grylls. The one thing that is evident in Grylls’ list is that he is yet to head on a wild trail with a female Indian icon, and he confesses that he is looking forward to the day, saying it “will happen, and soon”.

In fact, when it comes to taking other Indian celebrities on an adventure in the wilderness, he has a long wishlist. “Virat (Kohli; cricketer) would be amazing — a true heart of a lion and kind spirit. And actor Priyanka Chopra Jonas would be incredible! I took her husband (singer-actor Nick Jonas) away once on a journey and he was a great guy. People would love to hear her story, too,” he elaborates.

Sharing his experience about working with Singh, Grylls says, “Life is all about finding our own true purpose and living with eyes and heart wide open with courage and gratitude — those qualities shone bright in Ranveer. In return, all I sought to give him is encouragement to keep living as he is.”

Looking back at his time spent in India, and with stars from the country, the 48-year-old adds, “The biggest learning experience while working with them has been that together we can all do so much more. When we stand shoulder-to-shoulder in the wild, we can overcome any obstacle.”