Actor brushes up singing, piano skills; Hrehaan and Hridhaan learning how to play guitar online
Roshmila Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; July 2, 2020)

While many wondered how to kill time during the Coronavirus lockdown, Hrithik Roshan has been developing a new skill. Coming from a musical family—his paternal grandfather Roshan was a successful music director between the ’40s and the ’60s, so was his grandmother Ira and now, uncle Rajesh — the actor has been brushing up his singing and learning to play the piano.

“Can you believe that I’ve been a music director for 50 years and don’t have a piano at home? I play my tunes on the synthesiser. The piano is a difficult instrument to master and requires regular tuning. But Duggu (Hrithik’s nickname) has always been passionate in everything he does,” his uncle points out.

He informs that Hrithik, along with his sons Hrehaan and Hridhaan, surprised him on his birthday, May 24. “He crooned Kailash Kher’s 'Allah Ke Bande' on a video call. I was impressed, as it’s tough to sing and play the piano in perfect sync. His kids accompanied him on the guitar. I didn’t even know that they had been taking lessons online, but was told that all three adhere to a strict daily routine. They are very disciplined and yet know how to enjoy life,” he shares.

According to a source, despite no formal training in music, Hrithik has made a lot of headway. He gave one public performance during a charity concert for which he practised for seven hours. On his parents’ anniversary, too, he played their favourite songs. With the script of Krrish 4 locked, is there a possibility of Hrithik singing in the film and playing the piano? “To play on screen, you have to be perfect. But Duggu is a perfectionist and maybe he will catch up by then. He’s got an innate talent,” says Rajesh, pointing out that sometimes, he has given them a link line for a song or lyrics.

The composer had previously shared that during Krrish 3, Hrithik walked in on his music session with brother (filmmaker Rakesh Roshan) and lyricist Sameer and hummed in English, “The heart beats every day, so why is it only today that I heard it for the first time”. It inspired Sameer to write “Dil Tu Hi Bata, Kahaan Tha Chhupa, Kyun Aaj Suni, Teri Dhadkan Pehli Baar”. “Together, the three of us create magic and this time will be no different,” Rajesh promises.

Here’s what the actor’s day looks like, with reading, playing indoor games, working out in the home gym and yes, learning to play the piano
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; April 9, 2020)

On March 25, Hrithik Roshan shared a personal note about co-parenting on Instagram, announcing that his ex-wife, Sussanne Khan, had temporarily moved in with him so that their children are not disconnected indefinitely from either of them during the lockdown brought on by the Coronavirus pandemic. Even after their divorce, on November 1, 2014, that followed almost a year of separation, the former couple has remained close friends and co-parent sons Hrehaan and Hridhaan.

Like the entire country, the actor, too, is in lockdown with family at his Juhu apartment. “Hrithik has been reading a lot—from self-help books and daily news to fiction. Right now, he is reading The 4-Hour Workweek. He was always inclined towards learning the piano and is using this time to develop the hobby,” revealed a source close to the actor. Hrithik is also following a rigorous workout routine on a daily basis. “He works out twice a day, once early in the morning and again in the evening, with his kids. He is spending extra time in his house gym, stretching, doing yoga and cardio, along with regular weight-training,” the source added. Evenings are reserved for board games. Hrithik loves chess and plays with his sons. “Movie screenings with the kids and being with his dog, Zane, also form a part of his routine.”

The 46-year-old actor, who completed 20 years in the industry in January this year, was seen last year on the big screen with Super 30, the biopic of maths whiz Anand Kumar, and the action-thriller War. Ever since, all eyes are on his 25th film. “Hrithik is in the process of finalising his slate of releases. He has been reading a lot of scripts in the last six months and has liked some ideas. He is in constant touch with the directors and writers, who are developing them, over the phone,” the source shared.

Apart from his acting assignments, Hrithik also plans to get into film production and has been reading scripts for that, too. While interacting with Mirror earlier (December 26, 2019), he had said, “The idea is to produce content-driven films, triumph of life stories, something that can leave an impact on the audience.”

He is also over-seeing the prep of his superhero franchise, Krrish 4, which is currently being scripted. “There has been a huge leap in technology since the release of Krrish 3 in 2013. And Rakeshji (his filmmaker-father Rakesh Roshan) and he are constantly discussing the scale, visuals and other aspects of film. It should hopefully take off next year,” the source added.

Mirror had earlier reported that Hrithik Roshan’s tour to the US had got cancelled owing to the pandemic. It will be rescheduled for a future date once people get back to their normal lives. Meanwhile, Hrithik was one of the first Bollywood actors to come to the aid of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. He extended support to BMC staff working round the block to contain the virus spread on March 26. To ensure the safety of the most fundamental caretakers of the city and society, he also procured N95 and FFP3 masks. Hrithik has also tied up with an NGO to facilitate 1.2 lakh nutritious cooked meals to old age homes, daily wage labourers, and low income groups across India. He continues to be in touch with government officials and NGOs, keeping a close eye on the needs of the ones suffering on ground.

With the ongoing countrywide lockdown, the duo has moved in together for the sake of their kids
BOMBAY TIMES (March 26, 2020)

In times of crisis, often the unthinkable happens. India is battling the Coronavirus outbreak, and the country is in lockdown mode. The situation has introduced a positive change in the lives of Hrithik Roshan and his ex-wife Sussanne Khan. The couple had divorced in November 2014. Over the years, they have been doing an amazing job of co-parenting their sons, Hrehaan and Hridhaan. That involved everything from going on vacations together to doing whatever they could individually, to give their kids a good upbringing. Yesterday, Hrithik took to Instagram to announce that Sussanne has moved back into his home for the sake of their children, as during these times of social distancing and self-quarantine, it will be best for their kids to stay with both their parents. With this, the two have set greater #parentinggoals for those around them.

In his social media post, Hrithik wrote, “It is unimaginable for me, as a parent, to think of having to be separated from my children at a time when the country is practicing lockdowns. It is heartwarming to see the world come together as one in this time of deep uncertainty and possibility of months of social distancing and potential lockdowns for several weeks perhaps. While the world talks about humanity coming together, I think it represents more than just an idea, especially for parents sharing custody of their kids. How to keep their kids close to them without infringing on the right of the other who also has an equal right to be with his/her children. This is a picture of dear Sussanne (my ex-wife), who has graciously volunteered to temporarily move out of her home so that our children are not disconnected indefinitely from either one of us. Thank you Sussanne for being so supportive and understanding in our journey of co-parenting. Our children will tell the story we create for them. I hope and pray that in order to safeguard the health of ourselves and our loved ones, we all find our way to express love, empathy, courage, strength with an open heart (sic).”
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Hrithik Roshan thanks Sussanne Khan for moving out of her house so they can be with their sons, Hrehaan and Hridhaan
MUMBAI MIRROR (March 26, 2020)

On Monday, Hrithik Roshan had put up a post documenting his time under social distancing with sons Hrehaan and Hridhaan, and their dog. On Wednesday, he returned to the ‘gram with a picture of ex-wife Sussanne Khan at his residence.

“It is unimaginable for me, as a parent, to think of having to be separated from my children at a time when the country is practicing lockdowns,” he began, lauding the world for coming together as one in a time of deep uncertainty.

Explaining the picture of Sussanne--the former couple have remained on good terms as close friends and co-parents since their divorce in 2014--the actor wrote, “This is a picture of dear Sussanne, who has graciously volunteered to temporarily move out of her home so that our children are not disconnected indefinitely from either one of us,” adding, “Thank you Sussanne for being so supportive and understanding in our journey of co-parenting. Our children will tell the story we create for them.”

Hrithik ended the post on a philosophical note, saying, “I hope and pray that in order to safeguard the health of ourselves and our loved ones, we all find our way to express love, empathy, courage, strength with an open heart”.

Hrithik Roshan on his 20-year acting career, looking for more than ‘blowing up cars and fistfights’ in action films and earning a solid year at the box office
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; December 26, 2019)

By his own admission, it’s been a while since he had such a successful year. “I have worked hard for it,” says Hrithik Roshan, who caps off 2019 with two screen turns—Math wiz Anand Kumar in Super 30 and rogue agent Kabir in War. Excerpts from an interaction:

What was it like juggling Kabir and Anand Kumar in the same year?
I didn’t have to juggle at all, because I like to immerse myself in the character till one film is over. It was great to be a part of films that make me feel the best as I am a restless person and get bored easily. For me, it has always been a pattern of jumping from one extreme to the other. The fact that I can do a Kabir right after Anand Kumar ignites me.

Does the success of Super 30 give you the confidence to be more unconventional in your choice of roles?
The decision to do a film has little to do with the success of films in that zone but more to do with how I feel about the character. I only agree to do things I can’t say no to.

Many believe that you should be doing more action films than you have so far.
I am dependent on the kind of scripts and directors who approach me. After Kaabil, I was looking to do an action film. In fact, I met the entire industry and encouraged a lot of people to write an actioner for me. I waited for a year for something impactful in that space, but it was Super 30 that struck a chord. That decided my fate for the next one year. People think I am deciding these things, but they aren’t really in my control.

What do you look for in the script of an action film?
I look for intelligence; the general approach is important. The story cannot be just about bravado but also about a flawed character. There has to be a contrast because usually, action films are all about the hero being pitted against the villain and that’s not enough. I don’t mind doing an ensemble or a two-hero film, but it needs to be intelligently written. Blowing up cars and fist-fights aren’t action for me. It should emanate from the protagonist’s attitude.

What’s happening with Krrish 4?
The film is underway but it’s best that I speak at the right time; once I begin work on the film.

Can we expect an update on the film next year?
Fingers crossed.

What do you think has made Krrish a successful franchise?
It wasn’t a pretentious superhero film; the logics were right. The genesis of superhero films in India requires a prequel and then to be taken forward into the template. In my head, Krrish became a superhero in Krrish 3. Koi Mil Gaya was a backstory with Rohit; Krrish was a personal story though, by the end, you feel that the character could be a superhero but in Krrish 3, he became one. The three films have established a solid foundation for the franchise. Any such series needs that because we are building the character from scratch.

It has been over two years since you announced a film. When can we expect one?
As soon as I find a script that I can’t say no to (smiles). I have never restricted myself to any genre, though the advice I get is to do more action films now. It’s not in my hands; it’s really about the script.

Super 30 came a year-and-a-half after Kaabil, your last release. Are you looking to shorten that gap?
The number of films is irrelevant because if I get three exciting films in a year, I will do all of them but if I get one in two years, there will be just one release. I will never not do a film that I love.

You have spoken about Hollywood offers in the past. Anything happening on that front?
Not really, but I am open to working there. I haven’t found anything, either in Bollywood or Hollywood.

Would you explore a feel-good film in the Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara space again?
I’d love to. I hope someone will write something like that for me.

We don’t see you often at Bollywood parties anymore…
I love spending time with my kids (sons Hrehaan and Hridhaan). Not that I don’t like being at parties, I enjoy being with friends, too. Perhaps I have been busy with films. It’s time to catch up with friends at their parties now.

Buzz is, you will be producing films, too, now...
Yes, my production house is actively looking for good content and my team and I have been reading a lot of scripts. I may not act in these films or maybe I’ll do a small part, but the idea is to produce content-driven films, triumph-of-life stories or something that can leave an impact on the audience.

This was your 20th year in the industry. Did you expect your journey to lead to stardom?
It’s a gift that I am nothing but grateful for. I have realised that stardom is a huge responsibility that requires a lot of skill to bear, otherwise it becomes a burden. I feel I have gotten better at handling it with every year but it’s not easy. I think of myself as someone who is shy. I am here to act, so there is a bit of awkwardness while putting the star jacket on. I am getting used to it.

Any regrets?
I don’t regret anything because everything happens for the best and has got me to the point where I am today. I worked in two films from different genres in the 20th year of my career, both of which are big successes. What more could I ask for?

Each time Hrithik Roshan crumbles under a debilitating injury, much like his superhero avatar in cinema, he emerges stronger. He tells us how he does it
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; September 11, 2019)

You have to sort of be a Hrithik Roshan fan-cum-fitness fanatic to even attempt to make sense of the actor's fitness journey. In the two decades since he made his industry debut, Roshan would talk about the injuries he sustained owing to the occupational hazard of being an actor with such nonchalance that he made vulnerability seem charming.

Even then, placed before the camera, film after film, he flaunted his athletic prowess with a flair that could render notions of him having suffered a double slip disc, torn ligaments and debilitating back injuries, laughable. The stimulus to go from broken to buff over and over again came from different motivators. Sometimes it came from his urge to be 'worthy' enough of playing a superhero (Krrish). On other occasions, it came from the dismay of being perceived as perpetually 'tired', after his son posed a question (reportedly: 'Are you too tired to play with me?').

Roshan apparently often argues that he isn't among the fittest in the industry. The prowess of his War co-star Tiger Shroff makes him look like 'sh*t', he had recently said to a magazine. But what is unquestionable is his ability to set an example after being broken, repeatedly.


Roshan with kids Hrehaan and Hridhaan

Evolution of fitness, for Hrithik
"I would consider [the phase] before my debut film, Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai, a turning point, when it comes to fitness. When I was selected for it, I trained diligently with Salman Khan, and haven't looked back. Dance has been my passion since I was a kid, and that is primarily what I would do to stay fit [back then]," says the actor, who amped up his routine when introduced to fitness entrepreneur Kris Gethin, before the filming of Krrish 3.

Roshan had turned to Gethin to seek aid in transforming his body after the injuries he had sustained — a double slip disc — when filming Bang Bang. "When I started training with Kris, I learnt that functional training makes for an integral part of your fitness routine. It helps you become athletic, and increase your stamina. One can't just go to the gym and lift weights. It will help you bulk up, but not reach your full potential. We'd mix functional training with my regular workouts, and I could see changes, both, physically and mentally."

Gethin relieved Roshan from a lifestyle of unchecked consumption of unhealthy food and a voracious appetite for smoking. "Working with him was an eye-opener. We would incorporate CrossFit and other kinds of functional training routines into my regimen. We finished a three-month transformation course two weeks early, and the results were astounding," says the actor, particularly citing the Zero Momentum Rep method as one that helps him regain strength post injury. "It also rehabilitates me. The method helps me push my limits. But, when it comes to shooting, I don't have an ego. If it comes to my stunt doubles executing dangerous scenes, I take calculated risks. The priority is more on acting than on an actor doing the stunt."


The actor with mother Pinkie Roshan

Light at the end of the tunnel
Even though he confesses that his physical injuries took a toll on his mental health, Roshan says that making lifestyle changes is always demanding. "I won't sugar-coat it. It is hard to adapt to a healthier lifestyle. It drains you before you can start feeling better. In the interim, you will want to quit. But, if you are able to push through, the changes can easily become [a] permanent part of your life. Staying fit and active is not limited to working out; it is an all-round activity that includes a healthy diet too. The real challenge lies in being able to maintain the physique without stressing the body. I make sure that I always eat right, and rest enough, so that I don't fall sick."

It runs in the family
Looking at the Roshans, it's easy to say that the family that trains together, stays together. If mother Pinkie often sweats it out at a Bandra CrossFit box, father Rakesh Roshan had spent the hours leading up to his cancer surgery, getting in the reps at the gym. Roshan's sons Hrehaan and Hridhaan too punctuate his Instagram pictures with their headstands, cycling or hiking endeavours. "Fitness has always been part of conversation in our family. It was in 2013 that my trainer and nutritionist for Krrish 3, Kris and Marika Johansson, got my parents actively involved in functional training. There has been no looking back."

Mentor turns 'mentee'
Roshan credits current trainers Swapneel Hazare and Prasad Nandkumar Shirke for making him ready to match Shroff, stunt for stunt, in War. Even as the latter has always upheld Roshan as his idol, Roshan admits that tables have turned. "For War, Tiger motivated me to push myself beyond what I have ever done in the past, especially after I had so many cheat meals during [the filming of my last film] Super 30. He is among the fittest actors in the country. Working with him made me want to reach newer heights of fitness."

Zero Momentum Reps
Celebrity trainer Sahil Rasheed says zero momentum reps is a regimen that involves handling lighter weights with almost no momentum. "There is minimal use of any accessory muscle. The focus stays on the primary muscle being recruited. So it reduces the risk of injury," he says. As per his Instagram post, Roshan suggests one repetition could last a minute.

Akash Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 8, 2019)

The funeral of J Om Prakash, who passed away in Mumbai on Wednesday, took place in Vile Parle around noon. His grandson Hrithik Roshan, who was present with mom Pinky (the late filmmaker’s daughter), father Rakesh and uncle Rajesh, performed the last rites. His ex-wife Sussanne Khan turned up with their sons, Hrehaan and Hridhaan.

Abhishek Bachchan, Kunal Kapoor, Madhu Mantena, Sanjay Gupta, Jeetendra, Prem Chopra with wife Uma and Pahlaj Nihalani were among the visitors. Amitabh Bachchan paid tribute to the late filmmaker with a tweet: “J Om Prakash ji, Producer Director of eminence, passed away this morning .. a kind gentle affable being .. my neighbor, Hrithik’s grandfather .. sad!! Prayers for his soul (sic).”

Actor Deepak Parashar told Mirror, “Mr Omprakash’s wife and my uncle’s wife are sisters. I got a chance to work with him Aap Toh Aise Na The. It’s very saddening and heartbreaking to see him leave us. I can relate to one of his songs right now, “Sheesha Ho Ya Dil Ho”.

Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; July 9, 2019)

Whether it’s the weight of the school bag, the pressure of high scores or the mere relevance of certain subjects in schools and colleges — education has always been a topic of intense discussion in our country. When Hrithik Roshan decided to topline a film based on the life of Anand Kumar, one of modern India’s most-talked about teachers, it made headlines for various reasons. When we met the actor, who plays Anand in Super 30, and his co-star Mrunal Thakur, they spoke about the controversies around the film and what makes it special. Excerpts...

Super 30’s journey officially began in August 2017, and it’s taken nearly two years to release. What are your sentiments, given that the film is all set to hit theatres this week?
Hrithik: Don’t scare us…(laughs!) Right now, the focus is only on getting the film released. The moment I watch the first copy of the film, I’m done, and I cut off from it. That’s the end of the journey for me. Till then, I am on tenterhooks. When I watch the first copy, I also know how a film is likely to do, and I have not been wrong so far. It’s unbelievable how some instincts work.
Mrunal: When I look back, I feel that it’s been an incredible journey. I got to work with Hrithik Roshan, learn the basics of Kathak and speak Bihari Hindi. I acquainted myself with a state I didn’t know much about. So, it was a fulfilling experience.

In an interview with BT, Anand Kumar had said that people mocked him when they found that you were expected to play him in the film. Did he discuss with you?
Hrithik: It was by instinct that I knew I could play him. Emotionally, the character is pretty much like me. When I was reading the script, it felt like I was reading about myself. So, I wonder if the appearance matters so much. I am not driven or manipulated by the superficial differences between how Anand sir and I look. There’s barely any difference between him and me as human beings. That provoked me to strike a conversation with people who look very different from me. Like the boatman I met while shooting for the film. I told my kids (Hrehaan and Hridhaan) about the experience of interacting with people who look different and yet seem very similar to you in the way they experience life. It hit me so hard, I looked at all the characters I’ve played. It was me who played Rohit in Koi Mil Gaya and the cool dude in Dhoom 2. It’s just a change in thought process and the clothes (overall appearance) that convinced you that I am that guy. Internally, I am not. That’s how I have employed the devices available to an actor.

Probably, your look in Super 30 came under the scanner because your past characters were fictitious, whereas this has a real reference...
Hrithik: People said the same thing when I played a superhero (Krrish). I remember hearing things like, ‘Hindi film ka actor and superhero and a cape... hahaha.’ When I worked in Agneepath, I heard things like, ‘How can you match up, it’s a classic and how can the makers recreate it?’ It’s not about matching up to someone, it’s my instincts guiding me to do something with the passion within me. If something inside of me says that I must leap at this and I don’t listen, I am not fulfilling my first duty unto myself.

Mrunal, moving on to you. You, too, play a real-life character — Anand’s wife Supriya. How did you interpret the role?
Mrunal: Supriya ji is the force behind Anand sir. I mean, the moment he won a medal, she was the first one to see it. Anand sir’s couriers were delivered at her address because his address was non-existent on the map of India. Anand sir is a romantic person; it’s just that some people are expressive and some are not. I didn’t get a chance to meet Supriya ji, but Vikas Bahl, our director, had asked me to imagine her and add my own colours to the character. He told me that relationships can either make you or break you. In Anand sir’s case, it became his biggest strength. I was very happy to play Supriyaji because she impacted his life in a big and positive way.

Usually, when a biopic centres on a man, the woman has very little screen time to justify herself. Did that thought bother you?
Mrunal: I admire performers who don’t work for their screen time, and choose a film because the character inspires them. At the end of the day, what matters is the subject and whether it has the potential to get people talking. I wanted to be a part of Super 30 even without reading the script. There’s no point in doing a lengthy role in a film that makes no impact, or playing a character that doesn’t help drive the point home.

You both have had a long and difficult journey with the film. Criticism poured in from the time the cast was revealed. In the thick of trying to freeze a release date, director Vikas Bahl was named in the #MeToo controversy, which he’s now been cleared of. Was there ever a time when you questioned your decision to be a part of this film?
Hrithik: No, on a lighter note, most of my films, for some reason or the other, have always ended up taking time. I am used to this drill of waiting. I have no idea why that happens to me. So, it didn’t really occur to me that there was any difference in those experiences and this. On a serious note, I never questioned the film or my decision to work in it. As for Vikas, I don’t see what the ups and downs have to do with my instinct to work on this film.
Mrunal: I think every film, individual and relationship, goes through its share of ups and downs. Yes, in Vikas’ case, things were more out there for people to see. I remember, even my first film Love Sonia took a long time to release because of the lack of money to promote it. There is always a right time for everything and the wait is always worth it.

What’s been your greatest takeaway from this film?
Hrithik: What inspired me the most was this line in the film that my character says, ‘Hamari raah mein log bada bada gadda khod diye, lekin yehi woh sabse badi galti kar diye. Humko chhalang maarna sikha diye’. It’s the gaddas in our life that teach us how to turn our weaknesses into strengths. Without these hurdles, you’d never learn or even feel the need to take that leap. Your hardships make you stronger, teach you to use your resources well and when the time comes, you are more than ready for the stride.

Did you really need this film to happen for you to realise this, especially when you have been through so much in your life and have overcome so many hurdles on your own?
Hrithik: It’s the other way around. Since I have been through so much, I could take to the script so easily. With this film, I want to tell my kids and all the kids out there that nothing should stop you from dreaming, and dreaming big. Don’t ever think that it’s not okay to dream because it seems impossible. Leave it to your teachers, guardians and elders to carve the way for you. Parents are the first teachers we open our eyes to. They have to take the onus to get their kids to where they want to be. As a nation, it’s important that we teach our kids to dream and to strive to become self-dependent. We need to work on the idea of cultivating a nation of individuals, who are self-reliant and independent enough to contribute to the growth of the country.

As a parent, what are your dreams for your children?
Hrithik: I just want them to learn how to be who they are in the moment that they are living in. I want my kids to say, ‘I already am someone, kya banana chahte ho mujhe? I am Hrehaan and I am Hridhaan.’ If we continue to drill the thought in a child’s head that he needs to become something, he will only aim to become something, which he may or may not really be. So, teach them to accept themselves for who they are and flaunt it. Why should there be pressure to become someone or something? As a parent, I aim to ensure that my kids’ values come from the choices they make and not from the money, clothes and cars that they have or the success they might see in their lives. Their sense of self-worth should come from their character, not amenities.
Mrunal: I have a younger brother, who is in his teens. I agree with Hrithik, we always teach our younger ones to be successful. We don’t tell them that it’s okay to fall and it is okay to not always win a race. If we want young India to be bright, we first have to stop pressurising them to stand first in the line, everywhere.

Upala KBR (MID-DAY; April 6, 2018)

From teaching his sons how to rustle up a meal to taking them on vacations, it’s no secret that Hrithik Roshan is a hands-on father to Hrehaan and Hridhaan. Recently, on Hrehaan’s birthday, the actor shared a heartfelt poem to instill values of courage and fearlessness in him. Now, Roshan has devised a new way to impart life lessons to his boys — the doting father has been designing comic strips that narrate stories with important moral values.

“Hrithik believes in mental stimulation for his children, so he has been creating comic strips and penning stories for his kids. He wants to give out important lessons that will help them grow into compassionate human beings. The stories are told in the format of comic strips and Hrithik designs the doodles himself,” says a source.

The star considers the material deeply personal. “He spends time on these stories alone first. Once he has given form to the story by way of doodles, he shares them with his kids. He will never publish them as it’s meant only for his two sons,” adds the source.

Roshan’s spokesperson confirmed the story.

Meena Iyer (DNA; December 3, 2017)

To say that 43-year-old  Hrithik Roshan’s universe revolves around his sons — Hrehaan (11) and Hridhaan (9) would not be an exaggeration. If you have followed the Bollywood actor’s life closely through media headlines and his own social network handles, it is quite obvious that the actor is beyond committed when it comes to his parenting duties.

Later this month, the actor is expected to fly out with his sons for a vacation.  And his shooting schedules for Vikas Bahl’s Super 30 (the biopic on the Patna-based mathematician Anand Kumar) and his upcoming action-adventure for Yash Raj Films that is likely to begin in 2018, have been worked out accordingly.

While in the bay, the actor’s weekends are simple.  Says a close friend, “Hrithik is either whipping up a meal for his sons, sometimes even encouraging them to join in to prepare the meal, or he plans a trip to the cinema with them. In short, it is all about the boys.”

Also, when the actor makes his calendar, he earmarks two to three vacations with the boys. “They love adventure sports,” he had told us at the start of this year, explaining why their holiday destinations must always offer outdoor activities like cycling, surfing, skiing or rock climbing.

Talking of the high that fatherhood gives him, Hrithik had said, “I cannot get enough of the time that I spend with Hrehaan and Hridhaan. I get along with them. I realise that with the three of us, it is not about fathers and sons. It is about three individuals who enjoy each other’s company.”

The actor also added that his sons are gifted with characters that he admires and that it is his privilege to help them grow and to be able to guide them in whatever it is that they reach out to him for.

While his bachelor pad has always had a special room for his kids, the actor has also ensured that other parts of his Juhu, sea-facing apartment are an extension of what the boys want. “As the boys are growing up, the house is remodelled keeping the boys’ requirements in mind. Be it a play area or their recreation area — where they watch their favourite shows on television — every detail is planned keeping his sons’ comfort and choices in mind,” adds the friend.

Upala KBR (MID-DAY; October 6, 2017)

The Hrithik Roshan-Kangana Ranaut controversy that broke out in March 2016 witnessed a new chapter yesterday as the actor took to his social media handle and offered his narrative.

In a statement where he questioned the alleged affair between him and Ranaut as it had “no trail left behind” by way of “paparazzi pictures or memento”, Roshan went on to add how he felt compelled to put forth his viewpoint so that he could “defend the truth because when truth suffers, the collective consciousness of society suffers… Closer to home, families suffer. Children suffer.” His revelation surprised many since the actor had maintained a stoic silence on the subject so far.

When mid-day spoke to a member of the Roshan clan, he revealed that the children had a role to play in the actor’s decision to speak up.

His kids, Hrehaan and Hridhaan, are his priority and it broke his heart to see how the controversy — from allegations of an affair to a rumoured engagement in Paris to e-mails being leaked — had taken a toll on them.

The family member revealed, “Hrithik’s family told him that enough was enough and now wasn’t the time to keep silent. They all sat down and decided that Hrithik needed to take charge of the situation. If you read the last line of his statement, it mentions how children suffer if justice is denied. That is a very telling line. Does anybody have any idea what his children have gone through because of this circus?” When Ranaut demanded a “public apology” from the actor on national television, the family convinced him to share his ordeal, lest his silence be misconstrued as his admission of guilt. After having a heart-to-heart with father Rakesh Roshan, the anguished star understood that he had no choice but to react. “Hrithik was insulted on Aap Ki Adalat. That affected him deeply. His family told him that if he doesn’t speak up now, it will mean two things — either he is guilty or he is too weak to respond. Neither was the case, so why shouldn’t he speak up?”

Despite Ranaut’s accusations during Simran promotions, he practised restraint as he did not want to engage in a public spat. “He spoke only after weeks. The intent is not to malign anyone but to save one’s dignity.”

Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; August 24, 2017)

Hrithik Roshan’s Kaabil released in January. Shah Rukh Khan whose Raees released on the same day has had another release — Jab Harry Met Sejal — while Hrithik is yet to confirm his next project. The actor, who was at a Rado event to introduce the new range of watches, spoke to us about the film that is likely to be his next release — Super 30, a biopic on mathematician Anand Kumar. Here the actor talks about his next project for the first time...

Meeting Anand
Hrithik met Anand recently at his house. Talking about the meeting, Hrithik says, “I had a very nice meeting with him. He’s a fantastic person. Apart from the movie, I have engaged in a lot of other conversations with him about his life. It’s an extremely inspirational journey.”

‘You need not be identical’
One of the major highlights of any biopic is the way an actor moulds and adapts himself while playing a real person on screen. Picking up nuances like walking and talking like the subject. However, Hrithik has a different approach. He says, “That is a very individualistic approach. You don’t have to mimic or mirror someone to play them in a film. You need not be identical, so why even try doing that? That’s one way to do it, maybe. But the other way is to narrate a story and to project the emotions in the best way that suits the actor. It depends on how you want to play it. For me, it’s not important to be exactly like the person who I’m playing. I didn’t even do it for Akbar. It’s purely the emotional journey that needs to be communicated.”

The waiting game
In the last seven months, there have been some projects with Hrithik’s name attached to them, but none have been made official. Prod him further about Super 30 and he says, “It’s too early to get into such details. I am also looking at many other scripts. Nothing is official right now. But yes, this seems like a very, very good journey for me to collaborate on. We have to wait for the official announcement.”

Maths — not a problem!
Mathematics spells horror for most people, but Hrithik seems perfect to play the part as he tells me, “I was pretty good at Mathematics as a kid. Unlike others, I used to love solving Maths problems.” And his sons seem to have inherited that from him, “I don’t need to sit and teach Maths to my kids (Hrehaan and Hridhaan) because they are also very good at it.”

Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; August 8, 2017)

Currently on a summer holiday, the exes have moved to Beverly Hills with sons after exploring amusement parks with friends in Orlando
Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; July 5, 2017)

On June 25, actress Sonali Bendre announced that along with her son, Ranveer Behl, she was off on a summer vacation. The duo was joined in sunny Orlando by close friends Hrithik Roshan, his ex-wife Sussanne and their sons, Hrehaan and Hridhaan, as well as Swades actress Gayatri Joshi, with her two sons. Sonali took to Twitter to exult, “Studies show that visiting the Disney World actually improves happiness and overall health. Suffice to say, the studies are right.”

It was a planned summer getaway for the kids and their parents who appeared to be having as much fun as the little ones as, with two more friends and their kids, they invaded Disneyland, Pandora – The World of Avatar and the Under The Sea amusement park. At Universal Studio’s Islands of Adventure the families explored the island of skulls from the popular Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. From paintball to adventure rides, they tried it all, spending two happy days in Anaheim, home to the oldest Disney Theme Park that was launched in July 1955.

“Sussanne and Hrithik forgot all about diets, taking the boys for a burgers-and-finger food binge followed by a trip to an open-air shopping centre,” informs a friend. “They have since moved on to Beverly Hills for an extended family vacation and will enjoy the Fourth of July fireworks before heading back to the Bay,” informs a friend.

Hrithik and Sussanne announced their separation in December 2013. Their divorce came through 11 months later in November 2014, ending a 17-year relationship.

However, the childhood sweethearts continued to remain friends and, in an interview to Femina last year, when questioned about the break, Sussanne had said, “We had reached a stage in our lives where I decided that it’s better that we weren’t together. It was important to be aware and not be in a false relationship. We are close (friends). We do chat a lot even though we don’t hang out together anymore. But above all, we are very committed to our children. We are respectful towards each other. When children are involved, it’s important to put our differences aside and protect them.”

The chats slowly extended to celebrating birthdays and festivals together, apart from the occasional film screenings. Of late, they have been going for family holidays in the Maldives and Dubai and now the US with the winsome twosome looking like they are enjoying every minute of each other’s company during these getaways.

Actor speaks of equation with ex-wife Sussanne, and co-parenting their sons
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; January 20, 2017)

Hrithik Roshan’s life revolves around his sons, Hrehaan and Hridhaan. The living room of his sea-facing Juhu apartment is proof. The walls are plastered with pictures of the three goofing around. He joins us after wrapping up Kaabil’s post- production work. Before we chat, he steals a few minutes to FaceTime the kids. “I am chilled out and completely at peace. Work [on Kaabil] is done,” he says.

It’s hard not to notice that the actor and former wife Susanne Khan are co-parenting their kids with dignity. The couple split in 2013 after being married for 14 years. “We continue to be friends. So, in my case, being a single parent is not difficult. In fact, I wouldn’t have it any other way. It seemed disillusioning at first, but it has turned out to be much better for how I bond with my sons. I have the most beautiful and honest equation with them now. Maybe we wouldn’t have been this close, if things hadn’t turned out the way they did,” he says.

Does he miss having them around when he gets home? “I am not missing out on them growing up. They are always here. Sussanne and I knew that we’d be mature about this. We didn’t overthink; we went with the flow to be the best parents we could,” says Hrithik, adding, “Moreover, I can’t make peace with a turbulent relationship. I will find a way for it to be stable. All my relationships are symbiotic. They add value to both, my life and of those around me, whether it’s Susanne, friends or family.”

The actor rang in his 43rd birthday on January 10 and believes he is leaving the best phase of his life. “The 40s are an absolute blast. I am more aware of the person I am, my likes and dislikes. I am the king of my time. I create my own joy and am happy to be where I am. I have never had this much fun in before.”

Hrithik Roshan on family, his current equation with ex-wife Sussanne Khan and the ‘do or die’ situation that is the release of his new home production
Meena Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; January 18, 2017)

Kaabil is days away from its release and you’ve been involved in the post-production as well, besides promotions. Shouldn’t that be left to others?
For me, this is exhilarating. It is a bit of a door-die situation. I love the process of filmmaking, acting is just one part of it. I want to be involved in every aspect of the process because it gives me a high. People are not aware of how the nuances of sound and visuals can influence your subconscious. I have just started learning all that myself.

Actor, filmmaker, superstar— which role do you relate to the most?
Superstar is a label that has been lovingly bestowed upon me and I’m grateful for that. I consider myself an actor whose journey started 17 years ago. And in these years, I feel that I have just scratched the surface.

Are you saying there have been no important films, no milestones?
For me, a milestone is a film in which I have shown a leap in my art. I consider Koi... Mil Gaya, Lakshya, Dhoom 2, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and Kaabil important in that sense. I have noticed a paradigm shift in my method as an actor while working on these films. It was almost as if another person was doing them as I observed from the outside. And then, that person became me. You experiment. You take that leap of faith. All of us actors have certain mannerisms down pat — the way we turn, say a particular line, so on and so forth. When you let go of that crutch and discover something new, that’s when you are pushing the envelope.

Your father (Rakesh Roshan) said that all actors are horses on a race-track, galloping to their best capacity and that one can’t assign first, second and third spots to them.
Filmmaking and acting can’t be manipulated and sold as per the demand of the market. It’s like painting. Every painter has his own style. S H Raza and M F Husain never did the same thing. Husain never changed his style because he thought another painter’s style worked better. If an artist changes their style according to his perception of what might work better, that is manipulation.

You mean the box office supports good films?
Numbers cannot be manipulated. You have to just give your best. That is what I did in Koi... Mil Gaya and that is what I have done in Kaabil and the films I mentioned earlier. The box office helps you recalibrate yourself. Again, it is an internal process. I might have been praised a lot for a film like Guzaarish but at the box office it didn’t reflect in numbers. You learn from that, saying yes, the film was good but the economics went wrong somewhere. Then you recalibrate to see to it that the budget is different for such films. Box office has no impact on the creative process but yes it can influence your internal direction. For instance, if you are praised for a film that doesn’t do well at the box office, something has gone wrong somewhere.

You have been a single father for three years now.
All fathers are amazing. It is natural love. I enjoy spending time with (sons) Hrehaan and Hridhaan. I am only doing something I love. I get along with them. I realise that with the three of us, it is not about fathers and sons. It is about three individuals who enjoy each other’s company. My sons are gifted with characters that I admire. It is a privilege and honour that I have been given the opportunity to help them grow and to guide them. I see it as a service. I am in service of the world; I am in service of my kids. When I love, I am in service of that love.

What have you learnt being around them?
I think the ability to challenge time. Earlier, I thought it was not possible to do too many things in a day. The moment I changed my attitude from, “It is not possible,” to “Let’s see”, my life changed. I can pack in so much in a day now. Many of the successful people have learnt to do it.

You also seem to be in-sync with your other relationships — with your parents, ex-wife Sussanne Khan.
I haven’t analysed my equation with my parents but I would say that we are far more connected now than ever before. I make it a point to take them, my sister (Sunaina), niece and chachi (composer uncle Rajesh Roshan’s wife) out for lunch every alternate Sunday. I recently took mom (Pinky Roshan), my aunt and niece to Courchevel on a skiing holiday. We are surrounded by eight to nine important people in our lives. They could be family or friends. And I don’t take these people for granted. I want to be a part of their lives. When you are seeking peace, you have to take out the time to take a step towards it.

How would you describe your relationship with Sussanne today? She was present at your birthday celebration.
My relationship with Sussanne is peaceful. We are loving parents and friends to each other. I need all my equations to be harmonious. If I feel that I am not contributing to a person’s growth or vice versa, the whole exercise is pointless.

Your friends Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, with whom you’ve successfully collaborated on Lakshya and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, are standing on the opposite side of the room today as their Raees gears up to clash with Kaabil.
Every situation offers you two choices. One is to get upset and the other is to stay calm. Getting upset is not going to change anything, then why do it? The more fascinating thing to do is to take it like a man and be graceful about it. That is more fun.

But the man in Kaabil is an angry man? He is seeking revenge?
My character in the film is angry but I can’t be angry at people in real life. People have to be forgiven because they don’t know what they’re doing.

All your recent photo shoots have you flaunting six packs, which is in stark contrast of your character in Kaabil…
There is so much talk about the “Greek-God chiseled look” but Rohit, my character in Kaabil, is not that sharp-looking. He’s a visually-impaired, slightly out-of-shape guy and I didn’t want audiences to be disappointed when they came to the theatre and see me in a toned look. I wanted Rohit to look different from everything else I have played before. He is plump, vulnerable and sweet.

Hrithik Roshan unplugged on love, life, heartbreak and dealing with controversies
Deebashree Mohanty (TIMES LIFE; January 15, 2017)

What is a day in the life of Hrithik Roshan like?
Wake up to work out, keep things spontaneous, decide to sink deep into the task of the day (even if I don't feel like it), finish work with another workout session. Then I chill with my kids, get them curious about at least one thing in life, celebrate the last meal of the day, then surrender to the need of sleep, only because it helps me rise brighter the next day. Or else, I wouldn't sleep at all.

What have tough times taught you?
Tough times are important in our lives. It's during this period that we develop strength and abilities, and learn how to overcome obstacles. If you are a fitness enthusiast, then it's easier to understand this. You have to lift loads that you cannot lift, for your muscles to get stronger. So tough times are like a gym for the mind, I call it the mental gym ­ that single perspective makes pain a fun thing to overcome. Pain is nothing but weakness leaving your body.

Do you believe in living life like in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara?
Absolutely. That's the thought that makes me fearless. I do believe in living life to the fullest. I do believe in enjoying, smiling, and more importantly, I believe in learning and being a student throughout my life. Whether you get one life or 10, this would be my motto in each.

If life was a journey... who all would you like to take along?
My kids. I enjoy travelling with them the most. Not just be cause they are my kids but because they are fun individuals to be with, and to talk to.

Do you enjoy shopping-on-the go?
I don't like shopping at all. I take out just one day to shop when I travel. That's a rule my kids follow too. We have the list ready and a deadline we adhere to, no matter what.

Your favourite corner at home...
My sea-facing balcony. That's where I like to sit most of the time. But there is a space in my house for every mood I am in. It's the way I have consciously created my environment ­ to suit all my moods.

How do you keep your cool amid controversies? There have been a few...
People can only say two things about you ­ either the truth or lies. When it's the truth, I'm okay with it. When they lie and I know the truth, I'm okay with that too. As long as you know who you are, you will always stay centred. But it's not always possible to maintain your cool. Sometimes, emotions do take over. Having said that, you gain better perspective eventually.

How do you deal with heartbreak?
We all deal with our own heartbreaks in unique ways. I have mostly relied on time and curiosity. Time heals you. And curiosity turns it into adventure.

Is marriage always a decision made with the heart? Or mind?
It's very difficult to generalise this. It differs for each person.

Is it possible to be good friends with your ex?
Again, this depends on the nature and temperament of people involved and circumstances that they faced. The possibility of being good friends with your ex is absolutely there.

How do you spend time with your sons ­ Hrehaan and Hridhaan?
All of us are very physical and love adventure. We love discovering new places and new things in the world. We love analysing stuff too. And teaching my sons about life has, in turn, taught me many things.

People often confuse strength with masculinity...
Strength is not gender dependent.

Hrithik Roshan on celebrating his 43rd birthday and what turning older means to him
Subhash K Jha (DNA; January 10, 2017)

Hrithik Roshan, who turns 43 today, went through a turbulent year in 2016. The controversy regarding Kangana Ranaut’s romantic insinuations and the failure of Hrithik’s big-ticket spectacle Mohenjo Daro have not dampened the superstar’s spirit. He looks with hope, happiness and optimism in the coming year as his birthday and the release of Kaabil is lined up one after another.

What do birthdays mean to you?
I guess they are special because it gives people a chance to say they love you and gives you a chance to reciprocate that love. It must be celebrated with joy, just for that reason.

What is your earliest memory of a birthday?
Fancy-dress parties. We used to love them. And waking up to new toys.

Now, of course, your sons must be more excited about your birthdays than you are?
My birthdays are special to them because we always do something crazy on that day. This time, though, I really have to put my imagination to the test as all the post-production work for Kaabil threatens to use up my entire day! But I’m sure I will manage something fun.

How important is Kaabil for you?
Very important. Feels like Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai all over again! By the way, that, too, had opened in January.

Having crossed 40, do you agree that life begins at 40?
Life begins whenever you decide to stand up and dance to the ups and downs of the rhythm of life knowing that it’s always heading towards a crescendo! But my 40s certainly promise to be the most fun. I plan to live life to the fullest.

What is the one most important lesson that life has taught you?
That magic exists. That you can create a world for yourself with your own two hands as long as you stay curious with the wonder of a child about the next surprise life has to offer. I love to be curious about life and grasp new experiences with both hands. I love exploring the world with my sons. To me, it’s a game. And I love playing it.

Would you want your sons to be actors?
They can be anything they want to be. My only condition is that they must do their best in whatever they choose.

Post-Kaabil, which project have you taken on?
None yet. I’m looking at various projects. But contrary to reports, I haven’t signed anything new.

Looking back on the year, what is the one thing that you’d like to change?
Absolutely nothing! I love my life. God has been very kind to me. Minor irritants do not bother me.

Lasyapriya Sundaram (BOMBAY TIMES; January 10, 2017)