Sports enthusiast and ambassador of the Premier League in India, Ranveer Singh, is often spotted at major sporting events across the world. In an exclusive interaction with Bombay Times, the actor talked about his love for football, sporting culture in the country and the discourse following his presence at a Formula 1 race.

I am aligned with Sachin sir’s thinking. It’s insightful of him to say that. Sports teaches you that ups and downs, success and failure are part of life. Sport builds character, and it helps you navigate the ebb and flow of life. It promotes a healthy lifestyle and is good for the mind, body, and soul. I am happy to see that the newer generation is taking up sports from a younger age and there is awareness about the merits of being involved in sports.

These experiences have been truly magical. It feels surreal to meet these people, fans and feel the energy in person. These opportunities are special because I grew up watching these legendary players. I am very grateful for my journey as an artiste, entertainer, and an actor. It has got me this far and I am able to live my dreams beyond my imagination.

I am aware of the discourse that followed on social media around my F1 appearance. Unhonay normal question pucha, maine normal answer diya. (Former race driver and F1 commentator Martin Brundle had asked Ranveer at the paddock, “I’ve momentarily forgotten who you are. Can you tell me please?” Ranveer answered, “I am a Bollywood actor. I hail from Mumbai, India. I am an entertainer.") I didn’t overthink or pick any layers to the question. I was just being authentic and true to myself. When I go to these places, they sense that he must be somebody but may not be familiar with me. My friends often tell me that I have this ability to go up to anybody and have a conversation. I guess it comes naturally to me. I meet people and introduce myself. It’s important for me to make a good impression as an Indian actor and represent my culture, demeanour and manners well. Positivity helps and I like it when I can get someone to smile when they interact with me. I am grateful that some people have recognised that about me.

The FIFA World Cup in Qatar was grand and glorious. It is the world’s biggest spectacle, a night I will never forget. It will go down in history as one of the greatest WC finals ever. I was happy to be there with my wife. I was so proud to see her unveil the WC trophy with a player I really admire -- Iker Casillas, the legendary Spanish keeper. That evening was incredible. I am grateful I got to do that.

I really like underdog stories. I haven’t come across one, but it would be nice to discover a story with a theme and background of football, it is my area of interest. 83’s creative process was extremely fulfilling. I am looking forward to Ajay Devgn starrer Maidaan, which is based on Indian football.

Thierry Henry (Former French footballer who is widely considered one of the greatest strikers of all time) was going to come to Mumbai. On the last day of his visit, I arrived from out of town and on a whim, I just made some calls. I said I understood the (brand) restrictions, but he is my hero, and I would love to go see him. The most remarkable part of that meeting was how kind, patient, warm, welcoming, and inclusive he was towards me and my friends. I seek inspiration from that. When I meet my fans today, I am more mindful of their emotions. When I was younger, I may have felt that fan frenzy could be excessive, but after my meeting with Henry, I thought differently. When I was on the other side as a fan of Henry, and he treated me so nicely, I realized why it’s important for me to be sensitive to the emotions of my fans. The kindness that Henry showed towards me, I make it a point to take that kindness forward.