The actress talks about how her father, Suniel Shetty, has taken up the job of her fitness trainer at their Khandala home
Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; September 15, 2020)

Suniel Shetty has been among the fittest actors in Bollywood ever since he began his career. Among the people, who take inspiration from the 59-year-old actor to stay fit, is his daughter Athiya Shetty. In fact, over the past few months, while the family has been staying at their Khandala home, he has taken on the role of her fitness trainer.

Athiya says, “During the past few months at home, I have spent the maximum time with my dad. He inspires me to work out regularly. So, these days we’ve been working out together. He is extremely passionate about fitness, yoga and eating right. It is tough to keep up with him, but I try (laughs!).” Suniel shares, “The truth is that Athiya tries to push the envelope and even matches up to me at times. She sometimes even bullies me (laughs!). She also tries to bunk our fitness session. I always tell her that we should workout six times a week, but she reasons that since there are only five weekdays, why should one workout for six days?”

The Motichoor Chaknachoor actress says that it almost feels like she is living with a fitness trainer at home as she tries to follow a healthier lifestyle and exercises five times a week with her dad. Suniel says, “I train her for one-and-a-half hours. This is quite kifayti, as she doesn’t need to hire a trainer aur paisa bachh jaata hai (laughs!).” Athiya adds, “Once he is done with his routine, he begins my training. Every day, we focus on different body parts. We have a gym in Khandala, and interestingly, he still has the equipment that he used years ago. He even has the dumb-bells he used during the filming of Balwaan (1992). He has preserved all of it, and it is quite precious to us.”

Talking about his collection, Suniel says, “Yes, I have preserved a lot of equipment. In fact, I have a ‘moon bench’, which new gyms don’t have. Arnold Schwarzenegger would use it, and seeing that, I had got one made for myself. It does wonders for your body.”

Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; August 2, 2020)

It’s been three years since the release of Mubarakan, and the friendship between the lead actresses of the film, Ileana DCruz and Athiya Shetty, has only grown stronger. This Friendship Day, ‘Athu’ and ‘Ilu-Pilu’ as they fondly address each other, talk to Bombay Times about their camaraderie, what they bond over the most and how good friends help us better ourselves. Read On…

At the time of Mubarakan’s promotion (in 2017), both of you spoke volumes about how you got along with each other. But, given how actors have to quickly move on to their next project, very often, even after sharing a great bond, they don’t end up keeping in touch...
ILEANA: But, we did! I think our no-filter, nojudgment attitude is what bonds us.
ATHIYA: Yes, I agree. It’s also true that actors tend to move on after every project, so I didn’t think that we would stay in touch, but we got together from the word go. I remember, the first time I met her was when I had come for the screening of Rustom (2016). There’s a scene in the film where Ileana’s crying and it left me impressed. I went up to her and said, ‘Hey, you are such a good crier!’ Later, I was like oops… did I just say that, as that was the first time ever that I met her and interacted with her. It could have been a little more formal than that, is what I thought (laughs!).
ILEANA: But, that’s exactly her… no filters! Whatever is on her mind, she says it out loud. It is very rare to meet someone, who you can be yourself with and have no filters. I don’t have to think about what conversation to have with her. I can just be me.
ATHIYA: I feel that from day one, I have been able to trust her. I have told her things about myself and I know that she will keep it to herself. I have always looked up to Ileana for the way she presents herself. She is so full of grace and is a very honest person.

What is it that you bond over the most?
ATHIYA: Predominantly, it’s food! I remember on the first day of the shoot of Mubarakan, Ileana had baked coconut macaroons for me. She is a fantastic baker. Till date, I ask her for recipes, though she knows that I won’t try making them. During the London schedule of the film, we would go out on food outings together. I was like…this is the best co-star ever.
ILEANA: Her room was next to mine and that’s literally how I would get her out of her room. I would drag her out by planning food trails.

Your friends often make you a better person, as there is so much to learn and exchange from each other, even while having all that fun, right?
ATHIYA: So, Ileana has OCD and I honestly believe that after I met her, I developed that as well. If my hair was out of place during the shoot, or if there was even a strand of thread on my ghagra that no one spotted, Ileana would. She is very particular about everything and I developed those traits after I met her.
ILEANA: I am quite the opposite of Athiya. While she is free-spirited, I tend to overthink. She just throws herself in a situation and enjoys it, while I tend to sit upright and hold myself back. Thanks to Athiya, I have started being comfortable and letting myself loose. So, being with her, I have learnt to let go.

Titas Chowdhury (HINDUSTAN TIMES; April 27, 2020)

Athiya Shetty is in no mood to slow down during the lockdown period. She has tirelessly been working with an NGO, Save The Children, run by her parents. During the Coronavirus health crisis, the NGO has come up with an initiative to provide relief material to about 7,500 families across the country and she’s happy to be a part of it. “We’re providing grains, groceries, medical supplies and even directly transferring cash to families living in parts of Mumbai, Pune and New Delhi,” she shares.

However, the actor believes that providing ration to the needy is more helpful than offering them money. She says, “If we give them money, they might not be able to get the specific product they require as many shops, warehouses or organisations are shut. Moreover, stepping out to buy things only violates the norms of social distancing.”

Shetty says that they’ve been working towards helping children with special medical needs as well. She elaborates, “A couple of weeks ago, we realised that some of the kids from our NGO have had cochlear implant surgeries and have to wear a hearing aid. That battery was running out and all the warehouses were shut, so we tried to reach out to different companies to try and get those specific batteries, and finally, we got them last week.”

Social responsibility is at the top of her priority list currently. The Hero (2015) actor explains, “If you don’t help people now, I don’t know when you can. It just breaks my heart to see videos of migrants walking endlessly to go back home to their families. What the world needs right now is people helping, coming together, being united, just being better human beings and more supportive towards the vulnerable. At the end of the day, it will make you feel better and will make the person feel a hundred times better.”

Kavita Awaasthi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; December 5, 2019)

She played a city-bred girl in her first two films, Hero (2015) and Mubarakan (2017) and after a gap of two years, Athiya Shetty is back with Motichoor Chaknachoor in a new avatar. Essaying the role of a small-town girl for the first time, the actor is happy that her work is getting “validated”.

“The role was challenging, as I did step out of my comfort zone. People thought I couldn’t act, but I took a risk and tried something different, so it feels nice to be appreciated. It’s humbling and I feel grateful,” adds Suniel Shetty’s daughter.

The actor admits that she was initially intimidated after reading the script of the film. “I didn’t think I could pull off such a role, as I had only played a city girl in my earlier films. I wondered why the director offered me the role,” she shares, adding, “But after extensive workshops on lingo and body language, and with time, I gained confidence to perform, and it paid off. With this film, I threw myself at the deep end. But I needed that, and it has helped me grow. Now, I won’t be hesitant to take on such different roles.”

Athiya points out that her co-stars Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Vibha Chibber had made her feel “nervous”. The actor, who has taken long gaps in between films, says, “Some days are frustrating, while waiting for the right roles. But, in this career, one must have patience, which many dismiss. There are highs and lows in every actor’s career. Some days, you question yourself and your choices, and on other days, when you are shooting, you feel confident. It takes a lot to be successful in this industry. It takes hard work, perseverance and courage.” She reveals that she kept herself busy with dance and Hindi diction classes while waiting for the right opportunity.

The breaks in her career had led to reports of her being written off from the industry, but Athiya says she never paid heed to them. The 27-year-old actor didn’t want to sign films in a hurry. She adds, “One can’t predict anything in this industry. I was clear that after Mubarakan, I wanted to do films unlike my first two films. I wanted the opportunity to act, and work on myself. Everyone has their own destiny and everyone’s journey is different.”

Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; December 18, 2018)

Three years ago, Athiya Shetty was launched by Salman Khan in Hero. Since then, she has acted in only one film Mubarakan (2017). Now, after lying low for some time, the star kid will be seen in Motichoor Chaknachoor where she is paired opposite Nawazuddin Siddiqui. The leggy lass tells After Hrs what prompted her to sign a comedy film again and on sharing screen space with the multi-talented Nawaz. Excerpts…

What has been your biggest takeaway while shooting for this movie? 
It was the best experience of my life. Some films just change you and this was one of them. I not only grew as a person but also as an actor. The role demanded a different energy, which helped me a great deal to become more confident about myself. I borrowed my character’s traits because I fell in love with who I was portraying. Though it was a tough role, there was a sense of ease that I’ve never felt in the past. I enjoyed all of those 16-hour days.

This will be your third film since you made your debut in 2015. Was it a a deliberate attempt on your part to take things slowly?
It wasn’t a conscious decision. I didn’t like the films that were offered to me. I loved this one as I knew it would challenge me as an actor. And I needed to be challenged.

What are the factors that you keep in mind while choosing a film? 
The script. And then the director. In the case of Motichoor Chaknachoor, I followed my instinct. I heard the script and there wasn’t any reason to say no. There was an immediate sense of excitement and nervousness. I was petrified. And sometimes you do things because it’s like taking a leap of faith. Moreover, the film was set in Bhopal and I had to speak Bundelkhandi, which was challenging, too.

This will be your second comedy after Mubarakan. Do you think it’s a tough genre?
It’s my favourite genre. I enjoy it so much. It is extremely tough, but when you’re performing, you can’t approach it like a comedy. Everything lies in the text, you just have to be honest to your character and dialogues.

Were you under a lot of pressure while working with Nawazuddin? 
He is an absolute genius. And he doesn’t even know it, which is the best part. He makes you extremely confident as an actor. I have learnt a great deal by just observing his method.

This is quite an unconventional pairing... 
That’s the beauty of the script and the two characters. We are ‘unconventional’ but it makes perfect sense once you watch the film.

Were you apprehensive that this will be perceived as a not-so commercial film, given that Nawaz plays the titular character? 
No! No other actor can determine your outcome. It’s your hard work, and how honestly you’ve portrayed your character.

Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; August 26, 2018)

Athiya Shetty is three years older to brother Ahan Shetty. While she has starred in two films, her bhai will soon be launched by Sajid Nadiadwala’s banner. And though they have distinct personalities, they always have each other’s back. They don’t celebrate Raksha Bandhan the way it usually is. Athiya reveals, “We tie each other rakhi. He’s the most important person in my life, and I am extremely protective about him. I’ll always be by his side.” The tradition was started by her parents Suniel Shetty and mom Mana Shetty.

The Mubarakan actress also tells us that the two are “poles apart”. “But that’s the best part of our relationship,” she avers adding, “He gives me perspective, and teaches me the importance of being calm and secure in every phase of life. He’s extremely mature and even though he’s younger, I look up to him.”

Their  equation has changed over the years. “When we were younger, we used to fight a lot and even beat each other up. We would actually play WWE and took it a little too seriously. But now we argue, and it’s forgotten within the next hour,” Athiya laughs. She also adds that Raksha Bandhan has “never been about the gift”. She says, “It’s more about spending time together and the emotion behind the day. We celebrate it at my mamu’s house with all my cousins, and since I am the only sister, I’m spoilt by everyone.”

Manish D Mishra (DNA; August 19, 2017)

In a small span of time, Athiya Shetty has emerged to be one of the coolest dressers in Bollywood. Be it her appearances at promotional events or at airports — her style exudes an air of chic, simplicity and ease. The tall and statuesque beauty talks about brainstorming with her stylist and the red carpet scene in India...

How do you and your stylist brainstorm?
My stylist Ami Patel and I have a styling group on WhatsApp, where we share images, references and cool things we like. Ami keeps my personality in mind while styling me and does that beautifully. I love the person that she is. I am very close to her. She encourages me to try different new things and experiment. I like to keep it simple and easy and she is somebody who I just get along well with both personally and professionally, and when you have both things, it’s a win-win.

Which is your favourite fashion era?
I wore some ’70s-inspired looks in Mubarakan. I love that decade, especially the flared denims and I am constantly in them. I love the crop tops too. It’s easy and comfortable and at the same time chic. I am still in that phase two years later.

How do you see your style evolution?
I think, I am more aware of what I want to be projected as and what suits me. I am more comfortable and confident. I think that happens as you grow older, what looks good on you and what doesn’t. I have become confident today and I’m trying to experiment a lot more. I am a very simple person and dress very simply in my personal life. I love boyfriend jeans and mom jeans and love pairing them with crop tops and keds. I like to keep it simple and classic.

What would you wear at the Met ball?
I think, it’ll be a pantsuit. (Smiles)

What’s your take on the red carpet scene in India?
I don’t take myself too seriously. People assume that I think about my clothes a lot, but I really don’t. Like this outfit (I’m wearing) we figured it out this morning itself. I like clothes and enjoy putting them together and have an eye for it. Also, it’s a teamwork. I feel that without Ami, I wouldn’t be as stylish as people consider me to be.

Your favourite designers and why?
I am not such a designer person. I like shopping at different places and it depends on what catches my eye. My current favourite is Bibhu Mohapatra. I wore Prabal Gurung for the first time recently and loved it.

Do you enjoy shopping?
I don’t like shopping, I get tired and impatient. I am not a shopper, but I love clothes and accessories. I hate trying on clothes. I am a very lazy shopper. When the Mubarakan team used to shop in London, I would just sit and chit-chat.

Do you have a liking for any accessory?
I love keds — have more than 100 pairs — Adidas Original, Nike and Yeezy. You have to convince me to wear high heels.

Which city according to you is the fashion capital of the world?
New York is very personality driven. Their outfits speak for who they are. NYC is more versatile and find all kinds of people.

Who are your style icons?
I love Kendall and Gigi — admire their confidence, grace with which they carry their clothes. It’s not like she’s wearing an expensive dress. She’ll just wear a white T-shirt, but pulls it off beautifully.

Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; July 24, 2017)

Athiya Shetty’s got a spunky vibe to her. Like her dad Suniel Shetty says, her madness is yet to be captured on celluloid. She’s gearing up for her next big film Mubarakan. Ahead of its release, we cornered Athiya for a round of quick Q-&-A. We asked her 50 questions — from her favourites to her choices. Here’s what she had to say!

How are you feeling today?
I’m excited. Because my film Mubarakan releases this week. I have been promoting all day and I have this energy which is good, happy and positive.

What do you love most about Mumbai?
The warmth of the people.

How do you handle the jetlag?
I just sleep.

What’s your schedule these days?
I get up in the morning, get ready, go for promotions, I come back, I eat and sleep. Somewhere, in between, I try to work out.

What’s the best and worst colour for you to wear?
Best colour would be white. The worst to wear is lime green.

Have you ever cut your own hair?
I actually have. I had really long hair when I was younger. I fell and the roller blade got stuck in my hair, so I had to cut it.

Who’s your style icon?
Kendall Jenner.

What trend will you never get tired of?
Boyfriend jeans.

What trend you wish never came back?
Very, very high heels!

What accessory would you never leave your home without?
My watch and my bracelet.

What is your favourite memory from childhood?
Being on Dad’s set. I remember being there when Umrao Jaan was being shot (starring Aishwarya and Abhishek Bachchan).

What is the best piece of advice your mom has given you?
Be yourself.

What is the best piece of advice your dad has given you?
Never fear a Friday.

Other than family, who do you call for advice?
Reshma Shetty (manager).

What’s the most romantic thing someone has done for you?
Because I’m obsessed with food, somebody had sent me my favourite chocolate cake from London.

What’s your favourite pie?
Cinnamon apple pie.

Who is your girl crush?
Bella Hadid.

What’s your most used emoji?
The ulta smile.

Do you have any tattoos?
Yes, one on my wrist — Angel wings.

What’s one thing about you that you wish more people knew about you?
People think I’m very classy and sophisticated, but I’m the complete opposite of that. I am junglee and a cartoon!

What sport are you the worst at?
I’m horrible at tennis.

What’s the best show on Netflix right now?
13 Reasons Why. I’m loving it.

What’s the last Internet video that made you laugh?
I watched a clip of Justin Bieber’s roast.

What do you think of horoscopes?
I believe in them.

Whats’ your favourite song to sing in the shower?
Right now, I’m singing Hawa Hawa.

What’s your signature dish?
Rajma chaawal

What’s the favourite dish your mom cooks?
I love her chicken fried rice.

How many kids do you wanna have?
Five. I love babies so I want to have lots of them.

Favourite drink?
Coca Cola.

Favourite dessert?
Gulab Jamun

Which is the best night spot in Mumbai?
Bastian, a restaurant in Bandra

Favoruite place you’ve visited?
London.

If you were a superheroine with superpower, what would the power be?
To read people’s minds.

Whose mind would you read first?
I would read everyone’s mind.

How many times do you look at yourself in the mirror?
I don’t. I have a problem, I don’t see myself in the mirror. People around me — my make-up artiste, my hairstylist — they are all upset that I just say, “Haan, theek hai, theek hai.”

What’s the best part of being an actor?
That you get to play a lot of characters in one lifetime.

What’s the worst part?
There’s a lot of judgment.

Which is your favourite app?
Instagram

Which is you favourite movie this year?
Mubarakan.

What’s the most expensive thing you bought recently?
I am going to London so I’m definitely buying something very expensive.

What fetish do you have?
I have a fetish for white shirts. I love them.

Which is the worst pick up line used on you?
Nobody has ever done that because I don’t think anyone has the guts to do that. Also, I just hate them.

Books or movies?
Movies.

Chocolates or cakes?
Chocolates.

Shah Rukh Khan or Salman?
Can’t choose between two legends.

Friends with benefits or one night stands?
Friends with benefits.

What’s that one thing you will never do ever?
I will never say never.

What’s the other language you can speak other than English and Hindi?
I understand Tulu, but I can’t speak it.

How much cash do you have right now?
Twenty bucks. I never have any cash on me.

What are the five things you cannot live without?
Food, my phone, my iPod, a blanket and my chappals.

Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; July 20, 2017)

Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; June 18, 2017)

When Suniel Shetty and his daughter Athiya Shetty team up, there’s not a single dull moment. Looking at the comfort level they share, they are more like friends than parent-child. However, that does not take away from the mutual respect they have for each other. We catch up with the Shettys at their beautifully-done-up office. The photoshoot turned out to be a laugh riot, thanks to their antics. But when they sit down to talk, they give us a glimpse into their world, getting nostalgic about the years that have passed by, and talking about the things they absolutely love and hate about each other.

How different are you as a dad from your father?
Suniel: I think there was no communication between my father and me. It’s not that he didn’t love me or care for me, but that was the generation when we said things without actually saying anything at all. Here, we are friends and there’s a lot more communication. You are more vocal because that’s how your children are. They talk to you about everything. When they want to say no, they say no. We didn’t know how to say no so we never did. Children now are very clear about what they want. Automatically, that has changed in me as a father.

As a kid, what would Athiya make for you on Father’s Day?
S: Cards! She and Ahan both get it from their mom because she’s very effusive. I come from a conservative family; I don’t express emotions. Once Mana came into my life, everything had to be celebrated because she is demonstrative.
Athiya: I remember sticking post-it notes to his pillow. He’d see them after returning from work. That way, I’m more like him — not very expressive.

When was the last time you did that?
A: A long time ago... Maybe I will do it today.
S: No, I think she is constantly expressing, messaging, or talking. As a family, we are like friends. When we go out as a family, people tell us we come across as strong friends, and I believe that’s the way parents should be.

In what way are you like your dad?
A: I am just like him...
S: (Interrupts) She is all stress. About everything. That’s the way I was. Bang-on punctual, extremely concerned about what the other person might think, whether I was upsetting someone else at my cost. I guess, all that is completely like me. And, she has a quick temper.
A: (Cuts in) I don’t get angry, I distance myself. That’s like him. I can cut somebody out of my life.

How are you guys different from each other then?
A: He is too nice, which I am not. So I feel pressured. Everybody says ‘your father is so sweet, you have such goodwill to live up to.’ And I am like, ‘I can’t live up to this’. I am not as nice as him.

Are you closer to him or your mom?
A: It’s different. While growing up, it was always mom, but now that I am in the same profession, I have more discussions with dad.
S: My wife is clueless about the industry.
A: But, it’s so good that I have one parent who I can go to for anything related to the industry. And then there’s another parent who I can basically run to for everything else.

Did you have the same rules for Athiya and Ahan?
S: Absolutely.
A: What rubbish! He never let me go to sleepovers, and Ahan always got them a lot easier than I did.
S: It’s the mother
A: No, it’s the father.
S: Mother and son relationship is crazy. Moms don’t know how to say no and they influence you, too. And you don’t want stress. So you say, ‘Theek hai’.

Have you yelled at your Dad or vice versa?
A: I don’t remember Dad ever yelling at me.
S: Since the time she was three, I used to say ‘Tiya’ in this particular tone and she would just start crying, that’s all it took. So I never said anything to her.
A: He was never strict about school or grades like other parents. I loved theatre and art, so he would always encourage that. There was only one rule — play a sport and go to the gym. Every season it was a different sport — swimming, basketball, etc.

Who is more at ease with your dad?
A: Ahan is more mindful of what he says in front of Dad. But, I can talk about anything to him.
S: Especially after she became an adult. They didn’t trouble me as kids. There were no rules in the house. You just need to be cautious and conscious about the things you do. That’s all.

Did you ever have to lie to him?
A: He trusts me and never said no to anything. The only time I remember having a fight is when I was 16, and I wasn’t allowed to go clubbing.
S: It was New Year’s Eve! I said, ‘Go wherever you want. Do not go to a public place or a jam session at night. Because if they catch you, it will be breaking news that Suniel Shetty’s daughter was caught’. And that’s exactly what happened.
A: There were cops, people shoving mikes into my face and the first person I called was Dad.
S: Under 18! I always just tell them not to get into trouble with the law because we are always targetted. After that incident, she and her brother have never gone out like that.

How did he react to the episode?
A: They were at a restaurant and he had to send someone to get me because there was media and he couldn’t come. I saw him and I couldn’t say a word. I was trembling. He didn’t say anything. That silent treatment was the worst. But, after I came back from New York, I never even had a deadline to come home.

And how did he react when you told him that you wanted to become an actress?
A: I always wanted to be an actress. I think he always knew it but never showed that he did. We were looking at colleges and I was at Heathrow Airport when he suddenly asked me, “Why aren’t you happy?” That’s when I told him I wanted to be an actress. He sat me down and he told me that he knew I’d be able to handle the success but what about that Friday?
S: Kids grow up watching us, so their first dream or wish will always be what their parents are. Naturally, they will come here. As long as you know what you want to do and what kind of graph you want, in spite of failure, you are welcome. Those are the only things I have always said. Be careful, work hard. 90-95 per cent of girls mature only after three years in the industry when people start recognising them. Whereas, for the guys, the first year is the decision making. You’re there or you’re out! (Smiles) It’s an absolute reversal.

Was it a conscious decision on your part to not launch her?
S: No. I don’t care about nepotism. It doesn’t matter. You tell me, in which profession do we not see kids taking up what their parents do? Mukesh Ambani won’t give his property and let his business be run by my son, however smart he might be.
A: Every family has a family business, so this too is as natural.
S: It happens in sports too. A cricketer who’s made it in cricket will try and make his son play the under 14, the under 19 and you groom someone that way. So 50 people who are desperate, and don’t have anything to do, write about it, doesn’t mean it’s correct.
A: I agree that I have been recognised and noticed because of who my father is. But then after I’m here, it’s up to my talent whether I can sustain... I have always said this. Your first film chooses you but then you choose your second, third, fourth and on...

Are you an over-protective and possessive father?
S: I am both!
A: No, you are not possessive!
S: No, I’m both and as long as she knows, what she’s doing and she believes it’s right, it’s right for me as well. I don’t care about what the world says or anybody says about anything. I believe in her.
A: Even if I made a mistake and come back and tell him about it, he will never say, ‘I told you so.’ They will be like you learnt from your mistake and you will move forward.

How important is it for you that your father likes your boyfriend?
A: It is extremely important. But I would only want that to happen when I know I’m extremely serious about that person. I wouldn’t introduce someone to my dad if I was doubtful about it. I would want to be sure. I might tell my mom about it though.

Has it ever happened that you have not liked any of her friends and she cut herself off from him/her?
A: No. Not at all. He’s never been like’ You can’t date this or that person’.
S: See, I dated someone for nine years.
A: (Cuts in) Exactly! He can’t tell me anything. He started dating my mom when she was 17. (Laughs)
S: (Continues) I came from a South Indian family and dated a Muslim girl. That was the only reason why my parents didn’t want me to get married. Time healed everything. She was the apple of my father’s eye. And my mother’s. People change over time too. Today, you might be XYZ but you change as you grow older. I was a brat when I was growing up. I used to beat people on the streets, but I have calmed down. I was friends with all the charsis in the world. It never mattered to me, as long as I knew where I was going and what they meant to me.
A: I don’t have charsi friends but (Laughs out loud)

Does it annoy you when people keep comparing you two?
A: Yes. This goodwill that he has in the industry, I can never have. (Laughs)
S: It’s an advantage too. Even if she doesn’t get that much of respect, acting wise, she’s safe. With a wooden actor like me, she doesn’t have to compete much to prove she’s better.
A: What rubbish!

One quality of each other you wish you had...
A: I wish I had his patience. I wish I was patient.
S: I think her energy and spontaneity. Even from an acting perspective, I am a very shy person. I’m very conscious of people. She doesn’t care, when the camera starts rolling. That magic is what you need to stand out as an actor. I have lacked that, straight from martial arts to movies.

One thing you wish you changed about each other...
A: His stress and I think he will change the same thing. It’s been passed on. (Makes a face) It’s in the genes so maybe if he had changed, I would have not been like this.
S: Her stress is unnecessary. Mine isn’t. She just gets stressed for anything and everything.
A: Even you just stress and fret about everything. (Laughs) One thing I have to admire that he never let us understand his highs and lows. I bring mine home.
S: Yes, and she doesn’t realise that this rubs off on parent ten times more. Parents are only concerned about their children. I could get on the streets tomorrow, lose everything I have. Still, I will have faith in myself that I will bounce back. But when your children go through that, it breaks you. The day you become a dad and you hold that child in your hands, you know your life’s over. You have to live for them now.

Have you ever thought about her marriage and how life would be without her?
A: (Shocked) What? This interview is over. (Laughs) I don’t think he wants me to get married because then, I will leave him and go (mock cries).
S: I think, Mana and me are more interested in having grandchildren. I want them to get married tomorrow so that I can have their babies to myself.
A: Oh God! First can you find me a boy? (Laughs)
S: I’m so ready to be a grandfather. Mana, more so. And there’s no child in the world who once comes to me would want to go back.
A: Thoughts about marriage? Absolutely not on the radar at all. First, let me find a boy. Secondly, let me work and that’s what I am concentrating on right now.

Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; May 29, 2017)

Athiya Shetty on feeling good about oneself and why she feels that marathons are a great way to support a cause and stay fit
Upala KBR (DNA; March 25, 2017)

The lithe Athiya Shetty is genetically blessed with a great figure, nevertheless the young actress works out every day with her trainer, even while shooting outdoors. Also, the Shetty beti tells us she has run a marathon before. Here, she shares some tips..

Balance is important
Balance in everything is key, believes the actress. “I’m blessed with a great metabolism. I’ve never believed or tried extreme diets. I eat whatever I want, because I love food! But I think it’s essential to have a proper exercise routine in place. I weight train at least five days a week,” she shares.

“For me, fitness means the correct balance between body and mind. You must feel good about yourself and your body. I try and eat right. I do follow a diet where I try and incorporate the right amount of carbs, fat and protein. In terms of workouts, I do weight training five times a week, where I work on strengthening and endurance. My three essential principles of fitness that I always follow are: early to bed-early to rise, regular workouts and a balanced diet.

A slew of changes
Depending on where she is, Athiya does change her diet and some part of her workouts. She tells us, “Currently I’m in London, so my diet changes according to my access to food and where I am. My workouts are quite standard. I stick to weight training because it’s necessary for my body type, but of course there’s always a change in exercises.”

Early sports connect
Growing up, she swam, played football, basketball, and was a track-and-field athlete. She credits her father for a general love of sports.

“My father (Suniel Shetty) had a rule — we had to play one sport every season after we were done with school, which I think really helps in so many other ways. It also helps build teamwork, skills and discipline. Even today, whenever I get the opportunity you’ll see me playing football downstairs, I love playing the sport.

Best exercises
For me the best form of exercise is weight training. I love it. It helped me especially because I had a weak back, and over the years it’s really helped me strengthen my lower back, which is required in our profession, when it comes to dance and even action. I also enjoy Pilates, it’s extremely important to stretch your body, and understand the importance of body posture, which I’ve learnt through Pilates.

Know your body
She feels that fitness is important for men and women. “I think every individual should strive to be fit. And by fit, I mean a balance between the body and mind, it’s not only about looking good, but maintaining it and feeling good about yourself. I think women should know that their bodies are strong and are capable of doing anything given the correct form and exercise, weight training is not only for men. It’s about finding what fits you and suits you,” she says

Regular marathoner
Terming marathons a great way to get the community together to support a cause and be fit at the same time, Athiya shares her causes, “I have taken part in a marathon in the past to support Save the Children India. I also used to do the Terry Fox Marathon every year.”

iCan’s a fab concept
The Shetty girl is aware of the DNA iCan Women’s Half Marathon and feels the concept is “absolutely fabulous”.

Last words
She feels, “It’s very important for women to be fit and take fitness seriously. A woman goes through a lot physical changes and I feel if we work out and give importance to fitness, it will only help for our betterment.”

Athiya Shetty calls herself boring; disses Arjun Kapoor link-up rumours
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; September 22, 2016)

Rumours about Athiya Shetty dating Arjun Kapoor continue to rage. When news of her doing her second film, Mubarakan, opposite Arjun came to the fore, gossip only got stronger. But the one-film-old actress took it in her stride. “I laugh it off now. I am a friend of Anshula’s (Arjun’s sister) and that’s how I know him. We aren’t childhood buddies. Growing up, the only star kids I knew were Krishna and Tiger (Jackie Shroff’s kids). Krishna is my best friend. Shraddha (Kapoor) and I went to school together. I’ve never really known anybody else from the industry. My mom didn’t really keep me away, but I don’t remember visiting my father’s sets (where I could have possibly met other star kids). I was always more consumed by studies and extra-curricular activities. Theatre and dance were my life. I knew my father was famous, nothing more,” she says about growing up.

Two-heroine films
She is excited about working with Mr Kapoor. “Anil sir, I mean,” she says promptly. “I am really looking forward to working with him. He has more energy than all of us put together. He doesn’t take his stardom for Arjun Kapoor granted. He has been around for so many years, and yet seems so fresh.”

She’s keen on working with Ileana D’Cruz. “She has her head firmly on her shoulders. We make too much of two women working together. There needs to be more two-heroine films. Bollywood could do with its version of Sex and The City. Sonam and Rhea (Kapoor) are setting quite the trend with Veere Di Wedding and making films where ladies are living it up.”

Waiting for McDreamy
Athiya calls herself a goofball. “Where do I meet people to date? I am not a party person. I am the opposite of wild. Weekend plans are about chilling with a handful of friends. I am quite boring actually. I love food, exploring new restaurants. I am a couch potato who needs her blanket. I can watch TV shows all day — Grey’s Anatomy, Girls, Narcos.”

The fashion-conscious actress says she is still waiting for her McDreamy (Athiya is a big fan of TV Series Grey’s Anatomy, which features the character). “I am still looking for my McDreamy. I want someone who can make me laugh and be my best friend.” Isn’t Sooraj Pancholi her best friend? “Sooraj and I have a bond forever. When you do your first film together, you share your excitement and fears together. Yes, he is one of my best friends and though we have drifted away after Hero, I know that he is just a phone call away. There is nothing romantic with him; it is a deep friendship that two people form when they are getting yelled at together."

Athiya Shetty on her second film (a comedy), her inherited comic timing, and the myths about her...
Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; September 8, 2016)


One-film-old actors are usually cautious about their second outing. Was it the same with you too?
Your first film chooses you and you choose your second film. I don’t see it as doing a film after a year or that it will release after two years. What matters is that I say yes to a film that I will be proud to be a part of, enjoy being on set for, and enjoy the process of filmmaking. This profession is about being patient. Being patient is not just about waiting, but also about your attitude while you’re waiting. I think I have now become a much stronger person and I know exactly what I want and what I don’t want for my career. It’s been a good wait.

There were reports that you weren’t getting offers...
Of course, Hero didn’t do as well as we wanted it to do. But that will never ever change the way I feel about that film. I don’t regret anything and I would do it again, a 100 times over. And as far as not getting films post my debut, the media will say what they want to. At the end of it all, I know what’s the truth and the people who matter to me know it, too. To me, it’s not right to talk about films that I know I won’t be doing, even if i am offered. I know the films I want to do and I know the mistakes that I don’t want to make. I was very clear that I would sign my next when I genuinely feel like being a part of it. I couldn’t have asked for anything better. Also, I think it’s really important to just be confident, wear blinkers and just work, work and work!

What made you say yes to Mubarakan?
I’m a reactive person. I either like or dislike things. I had laughing fits when I was being narrated the story. I almost dropped my glass of water. I was so engrossed in the madness and chaos that I felt being a part of it as an audience. That’s what drew me towards Mubarakan right away. When the film releases, the audience too will feel a part of the celebrations, the craziness and the madness of the film. It will make everyone feel happy. Honestly, I really wanted to be a part of an Anees Bazmee film. He’s so passionate about his story. That you can tell from the way he narrates the script. He enacts it himself. And that makes any actor excited then and there.

Is the feeling of signing this film any different from signing Hero?
No, it’s actually quite similar. It’s as if I’m shooting my first film all over again and I hope that feeling never goes away. Because it only shows that you’re really excited about your profession.

Tell me about your role.
I am playing a Punjabi girl who’s the apple of her father’s eye. She is extremely lovable, she’s simple and endearing. But her sweetness has an element of madness which adds to the chaos and mayhem in the film. So I think you will see a different side to her as the story unfolds. That’s also one reason why I loved my role.

Will you be learning the language?
My mom is a Punjabi. I understand the language, but I can’t speak it. I can only say a few phrases. My naani used to speak to me in Punjabi. But no, I am not taking any diction classes for the film as yet. But if my character requires it, I will.

This is the first time you’re paired opposite Arjun.
(Laughs) I’m really excited to work with Arjun because he is a very talented actor. He is not someone who can be typecast and he has managed to prove that with his body of work. He’s one of the funniest people I know. He’s constantly making people laugh, pulling people’s legs. It will be great to see him in a comedy because he’s a clown!

You’ve been linked with him for the longest time...
Now, I just laugh at these rumours! (Smiles) We are always talking on the phone and then two weeks ago, I read that we aren’t talking anymore because we have had a huge fight. It’s really funny and I don’t take these link-ups seriously. I have known him for a while. It maybe new to the media that we know each other, but it’s not new to us. I really don’t care about all those rumours.

Do you feel these rumours will be add to the film’s advantage?
No. I feel people will want to watch our film because Anil and Arjun Kapoor are coming together in a film for the first time. More than Arjun, the person I’m most looking forward to working with is Anil Sir. I think he’s going to have more energy than all of us put together. Even after 30 years of being in the business, it’s commendable how he always brings his A-game and gives every youngster a run for their money.

This is also your first two-heroine film...
(Cuts in) Yes, it is! I feel there should be more such films, yaar! Someone should really make a film like Bride Wars or Sisters!

So, no insecurities?
No, not at all. Instead, I’m really looking forward to working with Ileana D’Cruz in the film. Whenever I’ve interacted with her, she’s always been extremely warm and sweet. And I’ve always thought while reading her interviews that she’s one actor who seems to have her head on her shoulders. She’s so sure about herself. She’s refreshing to watch on screen. She’s a great actress and has an amazing comic timing. I especially loved her in Main Tera Hero.

Do you consider comedy a difficult genre?
Comedy is an extremely difficult genre. It’s all about your actions, your timing, your improvisations and being in the moment. So it’s definitely going to be a challenge. And to be a part of this film as my second film with such good and experienced actors, it’s going to be all the more difficult. But at the same time, it’s definitely going to be a fulfilling experience. Anees Bazmee is a genius when it comes to comedy. Incidentally, my favourite film starring my dad is Gopi Kishan, which Anees Sir wrote.

Do you think you have comedy in your genes?
I hope so. I’ll find it out only on the sets of Mubarakan (Smiles). As a kid, I only used to watch dad’s comedies because I was too young to watch his action films. I think he has an amazing comic timing. His characters in all his comedies have been very shareef and simple. But he still managed to stand out. And that’s what is important. I always tell him that your best jodi is with Akshay sir. I think they feed off each other as actors so well. I hope I got that little comic streak in me from him.

What about your comic timing?
See, a lot of people don’t really know the real me. And my dad had actually tweeted saying that ‘Your madness is not new to me but seeing it on the silver screen would be new.’ And that’s the perfect way to put it. In real life, I am a clown. I’m crazy, clumsy and always doing silly things. That’s my personality. I just do whatever and don’t think too much. Maybe a lot of people haven’t seen that side of me because they feel that I’m proper and poised, like I’m all diplomatic. But I’m actually not any of that. I’m very goofy! My dad is witness to that goofy side of mine. My dad is a prankster and I get my sense of humour from him. But his goodwill will kill me someday. Because he’s such a large-hearted person, everyone expects me to be as nice as him. And I cannot! He’s just too giving, he wears his heart on his sleeve. He would help anybody. I love that about him but I sometimes tell him, ‘Papa, please, you can’t be so nice also.’

Your favourite comedy films?
Chachi 420. I love Biwi No 1. I have seen No Entry at least five times and even if I watch it today, I’ll laugh. I love Gopi Kishan and I obviously love Hera Pheri.

How did your family react to you signing Mubarakan?
Anees Sir is one of my dad’s favourite directors and has given my dad many hits. It’s highly emotional for dad because I’ll be working with him now. He just told me to have fun. He told me to live in the moment and have a blast on the sets! My mom and my brother, too, were very excited. Everyone is so happy that I’ve signed my second film. I hope there’s no stopping me anymore.

Bollywood’s young guns discuss what romance is all about in a time of social media and dating apps
Anirban Das (MID-DAY; February 14, 2016)

Your relationship is not official till it’s officially on Facebook. We live in times when most of us are more in touch with our Facebook friends than our neighbours. We interrupt conversations with real people to check Twitter notifications and have ample opportunities to find romance online. Sexting and dating apps have taken over the old-world methods of wooing their partner and building up the romance. We ask the younger lot of Bollywood to spill the beans on the occasion of Valentine’s Day.

Describe love in five words or less.
Athiya Shetty: Loyalty, friendship, comfort, happiness and honesty.
Rajkummar Rao: It’s the most beautiful thing ever.
Sooraj Pancholi: Love is the most important experience of life.
Arjun Kapoor: Love is being comfortable, peaceful, calm, happy and yourself.
Vicky Kaushal: It’s the most beautiful state of mind.

Do you interact with your love interest on social media before you meet them?
Athiya: Sometimes.
Rajkummar: No, not really.
Sooraj: Of course yes!
Arjun: No. It becomes different when you are an actor.
Vicky: Friendship is a great start. I would definitely befriend my love interest, but not necessarily on social media. I think love happens when the energies of two individuals match in the most beautiful way, and that can only happen if you spend time with each other in the real world and not the virtual one.

Would you rather communicate on text than one-on-one during dates?
Athiya: I believe it’s better to meet and get to know each other, rather than develop a relationship through text messages.
Rajkummar: If possible, going out together is far better than texting.
Sooraj: I hate messaging. I am not a Whatsapp or a BBM person. I prefer meeting the person.
Arjun: I am single, so I don’t get to do any of it.
Vicky: I feel both the options are a bit extreme. However, I have to accept that it’s a flaw in me. I’m not much of an outdoorsy person, unless it’s for work.

Since no one waits until it tougher to fall in love and find the one?
Athiya: Love is extremely subjective. It means different things to different people.
Rajkummar: Not at all. When there is truth in a love story, it becomes true love.
Sooraj: I don’t think so. Love is love and sex is sex. And if one can have sex being in love, then nothing better than that.
Arjun: I think it comes down to the two people. If you like to hold on and be with your true love, then that is your conviction. But if you feel the other way around, it should also be out of free will. It is completely one’s choice.
Vicky: Every relationship goes through ups and downs. That is what makes it so special. We shouldn’t be restless and fragile, so as to give up without attempting to set things right. It is about holding on to each other without forcing it.

Have you ever stalked your crush on social media platforms?
Athiya: Ha ha! Of course I have! Who hasn’t?
Rajkummar: Nope, but it’s a good way to remember someone.
Sooraj: Yes, of course. Every day!
Arjun: I think it’s a nice validation to know that the opposite sex finds you attractive. Or sometimes, the same sex finds you attractive. I look at it as a positive thing. If someone has a crush, then it’s a nice and sweet thing.
Vicky: I’m not a tech-savvy person. I would much rather prefer stalking my crush in real life.

Would you be yourself and express love on social media or keep your feeling under wraps?
Athiya: No, I’m a very private person, so I wouldn’t be able to express publicly.
Rajkummar: I would like to keep things private.
Sooraj: Even if my partner is my wife, I will not do that. I prefer keeping the love behind closed doors.
Arjun: Not really. We as actors have to curtail certain gestures.
Vicky: Social media platforms deserve to be used for much more responsible reasons than for excessive PDA.

What do you think of dating apps? Would you try them?
Athiya: To each their own, I don’t judge! But, I don’t think it’s for me.
Rajkummar: I’ve never tried it, but if it helps people in finding a partner, then why not?
Sooraj: I have never tried it. But one of my best friends is on Tinder the whole day. I feel good for him.
He is a lucky boy.
Arjun: Personally, I wouldn’t. But I think it’s good for people who don’t have the time to go out and find someone to date.
Vicky: The first time I heard of a dating app, I was in a shock and actually refused to believe it. I have no clue how they function.

Do you like keeping your fans abreast with developments in your love life on Instagram or Facebook?
Athiya: No, I don’t think the world needs to know details.
Rajkummar: No, I don’t feel like doing that. For me social media is a platform to express my personal opinion on issues that I feel are relevant.
Sooraj: It is not necessary, but if your partner demands it, then I think I’ll have to make the sacrifice.
Arjun: I have not been in a relationship since the time I have been on social media. Hopefully, by next Valentine’s Day, I will have some experience.
Vicky: Never. If I’m in a relationship with someone, then what we share is something very personal. I don’t have a problem with the world knowing about us, but advertising and updating every step is not something I would do.

DNA (October 26, 2015)

Athiya Shetty is considered to be a budding fashionista — someone who knows her mind. Ask her if she could steal one thing each from Kareena Kapoor Khan, Katrina Kaif and Deepika Padukone, what would it be and she promptly says, “I would love Kareena Kapoor Khan’s acting skills! She’s so natural. When she is on screen you don’t look at anybody else, but her. From Deepika (Padukone) it would have to be her beauty. She’s so beautiful, poised and elegant. When I think of two all-rounded actresses, I think of Aishwarya (Rai Bachchan) and Deepika. And with Katrina I would love to steal her legs! I would like to cut her legs and attach them to mine (laughs)! She’s so hot! Her legs and her dance skills. Actually scratch the legs! I would love to steal her skills. She is a fantastic dancer.” Wonder what Kat’s beau Ranbir Kapoor has to say to that?

Athiya’s second will most probably be a romantic flick
Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; October 23, 2015)


If you look back, there’s always over a year-long gap between the first and second film of all Gen-Y stars. Should we expect the same from you?
It might be the same for me as well. I think a second film is more important because you get to prove yourself a lot more in your second film. I feel your first film always chooses you but your second film is something you have to choose, so there’s a bigger responsibility on that front. The second film is more important because it eventually determines whether you are here to stay or are just a one-film wonder.

What film would you do next?
A romantic film or in the romantic space, for sure.

Don’t you feel that after a point, it might get you typecast?
No, I don’t think it will happen because if you look at films, every film has romance in it. What makes them distinctively different from each other is what type of romance it is. There’s an Aashiqui 2 and there’s Hero, which also has action. Since there are so many types of romantic films, in terms of their treatment, I don’t fear being typecast as a romantic heroine. These are the type of films that I’ve enjoyed watching and I’ve grown up watching. I love and enjoy watching romantic films so right now, I want to stick in that space and do love stories with great music, which teenagers would love to watch. I want to do those films right now.

You are a 90s kid and that was the era of mushy romances. Does that also have an effect on the particular choices you are making?
Absolutely! The first film I ever watched in a theatre was Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. And I love romantic films. I love Dil To Pagal Hai, Kal Ho Naa Ho and I loved Aashiqui 2 as well. I think Shraddha and Aditya were so beautiful in that film. Maybe that’s why in my head, I want to do a romantic film. but it cannot be just another romantic film. It needs to have a great story and depth to it. I don’t want to do a typical love saga but right now, more than a thriller or an intense drama, I feel I will enjoy doing a romantic film more.

Aashiqui 2 was a tragic film. Are you game for a tragedy too at the moment?
Of course! Why not be a part of something you would enjoy watching as well.

Are most of them romance sagas?
Yes, they are all in the space of being a true-blue romantic film. I haven’t got any offer that’s tragic or intense now.

For your second film, is the banner important or will you be comfortable doing a film with a debutant director-producer?
Right now, my main focus is the director. No matter who it is — debutant or senior. I need to feel that I can trust my director to help me move on as an artist. They help me better myself. I am a complete director’s actor and I need to have that connect with him — to be able to ask him a lot of questions because I am never satisfied with my work. For me, my co-star doesn’t matter and neither does the banner.

Who do you usually discuss your films and projects with?
Honestly, I speak to my dad and I speak to Reshma Shetty, my manager because I think they are extremely realistic when it comes to me. They are not biased in any way and I like that. I like people being a little hard on me, who pinpoint my flaws and help me improve.

How much do you believe in the institution of love and romance?
For me, when I think of pure love, I think of my parents and both sets of my grandparents because they are the living example of true love in my house. My parents have been together 30 years now and they still have the same love and respect for each other. That trust factor is always there. So, for me, love is about being friends and also having the trust.

What kind of person would you fall in love with?
He has to be extremely honest and somebody who can make me laugh and be my best friend as well. That’s really important. You need to be friends with that person, you need to want to spend time with that person. For me, trust is most important, so I need to be able to trust the person blindly.