Hrithik Roshan says there’s a lot more that he has to offer as an actor
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; February 5, 2020)

He set the box office on fire with two consecutive hits last year — Super 30 and War — two roles as different from each other as chalk and cheese. And this is what actor Hrithik Roshan has always done in his career spanning 20 years. From Krrish (2006) and Guzaarish (2010) to Agneepath (2012) and Kaabil (2017), he has pushed the envelope. As the rumour mill goes on an overdrive about what is going to be his next film, we talk to the 46-year-old about the journey so far:

You had mentioned once that ‘playing a suave charmer who can dance well doesn’t come naturally’ to you. This is despite the fact that you are a regular on the lists of ‘most sexy men’ and are considered to be among the best dancers in Bollywood. So what made you say that?
I am frankly more comfortable doing characters where the exterior is not something I have to sell as ‘sexy’. Because it really is a lot of hard work, physically, and there is a chance to get carried away by that exterior. I need to be extra vigilant in each shot, to make sure my character is coming from a real place and does not appear pretentious about his looks when facing the camera. Unlike a character like Rohan from Kaabil or Anand from Super 30 where it is just all heart — that to me is easier. But then again, the mental stimulation when playing people like Aryan from Dhoom 2 (2006) and Kabir from War is just unmatchable. So, both have benefits.

Having done over three dozen films in a career spanning 20 years, have you figured out your process as an actor yet?
I don’t think that there is ‘a’ particular process of acting. An actor’s job is to bring a scripted character to life. It’s quite easy to imitate someone or even an emotion, but only good ‘actors’ can do that. I, on the other hand, need to feel it or I can’t act it. So, in that regard I am a bad ‘actor’. Hence my basic process in the larger sense is first identifying the way I want the audiences to feel about the particular scene or the film, and then feel that emotion and hold on to it till the end, towards that goal.

Is there still something left in your bucket list that you would want to tick off?
A bucket list is something that sets the basis for what all one wishes to do or achieve. So while I keep ticking off things I have managed to achieve, I also keep adding newer things to that list and there are too many of them. The ticks are an encouragement, and all the additions to the list are all motivations.

There are ups and downs in everyone’s lives. Who has been your inspiration? Does box-office success play an important role? 
Like you said, there are clouds in everyone’s lives. A professional high would definitely bring some kind of sunshine in your life but the key is to keep going, whatever the weather.

Do you believe that a part of the actor in you is yet to be tapped?
I’d stop acting if I ever felt that there is nothing more in me to be explored as an actor. I have always believed in taking up challenges and being more and more versatile in my craft. I am grateful for the kind of projects that have come my way to help me do that. Possibilities are endless and one needs to just keep discovering their capabilities

As told to Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; January 24, 2020)

I felt proud to be offered a film (Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai) by Rakesh Roshan, the director, rather than Rakesh Roshan, my father. He had told me time and again that he would never compromise when it came to work and that I should not expect him to make a film for me. With this in mind, I had already started meeting other filmmakers and traveling to places to find work. Then, my father had a brainwave for a young love story which needed a new face and told me to be ready in six months. There was no excitement, no celebration, no family announcements, just a call for action with a deadline. It was serious business and I had to be at my best. That itself was my high.

Also, I love contrasts, so getting to do two roles in my first film was exciting for me. I don’t remember anyone doing a double role in his debut film.

My aim was to fit into the model of a Hindi film hero. Muscles, dance, action… Those were the three magic words those days. Acting hardly counted as a prerequisite and was more like the proverbial cherry on the cake. In a way it was easy because all it took was physical practice to achieve these ‘star’ traits which today are a bonus as it’s acting that counts.

My first shot was the scene where I wake up from the dream of being a singing star. My first day was extremely engaging and my focus was unshakable. Between shots, I would put on my headphones and listen to a list of songs I had compiled specifically for Rohit. The other character, Raj, had a different set of songs. The first shot was okayed in one take itself, which was a huge boost. The second shot required 14 takes and made me hugely nervous. It also taught me an important lesson: the number of takes has no bearing on how good or bad an actor you are.

The fear of upsetting my father kept me disciplined 24x7. If I felt strongly about something, I could get stubborn, but if convinced, I would be tolerant. My dad and I often had differences and argued over them on the set and at home, but then one of us would be convinced and the matter would be forgotten in a second. It was never a contest, with a winner and a loser. The biggest hurdle was trying to convince my dad to give the simpleton Rohit a stubble with unruly hair and aggressive Raj a clean-shaven look with reading glasses. This was so against the stereotypes at that time that it was seen as a formula for disaster. But I was adamant and finally convinced dad, who decided to back my instincts. This very twist, I believe, did the trick and made me stand out simply because nobody else had done it before.

Birthday boy, Hrithik Roshan isn’t in favour of any ‘extravagant celebration’ on the special day; career-wise, the actor says he is ‘loving this current phase’
Prashant Singh (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 10, 2020)

Right from his debut film (Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai; 2000), he epitomised great looks and smooth dance moves. Even 20 years later, not many can match Hrithik Roshan’s Adonis-like looks and to-die-for dancing skills. Not just that, the actor — all along — also has had audiences in awe of his pitch-perfect histrionic skills, thanks to many solid performances as well. “I am loving this phase of my career. It feels like the journey has just begun,” says Hrithik, who turns 46 today. Excerpts from an interview:

To start with, would you call yourself a birthday person?
Not really. Usually, I realise quite late that it’s my birthday and then, I have to quickly decide on a plan, if at all, or not. Honestly, I am not someone who looks forward to having any extravagant celebration on this specific day (smiles).

Any special plans for the birthday this year?
For me, the best way to celebrate is to make my birthday a ‘gratitude day.’ I focus on my family, friends and my incredibly steadfast fans, who do not leave a single chance to make me feel special and loved. That’s why birthdays are always dedicated to them. So, for me, it’s about spending time and doing things for them. That’s all I am going to do this year as well.

Last year turned out to be special one for you with the success of Super 30 and War. Now, as we start 2020, how do you look back at 2019?
When I look back at 2019, my heart is filled with joy, relief and gratitude. There is a lot to be grateful for about the last year. I feel blessed for the opportunities, for all the love and support from my fans, and for being surrounded by people who inspire me on a daily basis. Having said that, I feel 2018 was a more important year for me when I was actually working on these two beautiful films — Super 30 and War.

Your last two films were diametrically opposite to each other in terms of their worlds and characterisation. Does that give you a kick as an actor?
Absolutely! It gives me a kick to take up challenging roles and mould myself into different characters (for films), but doing it in the same year — within four months to be specific — was pretty excruciating. But it has its own high in terms of overcoming a tough challenge. I think, perhaps that’s the addiction (smiles).

Interestingly, in 2020, you also complete 20 years as an actor since Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai. How do you look back at your successful journey till now?
Each year, and with every film, there has been so much of learning. But it is only in the last couple of years that I have started feeling more assured as an actor. Kaabil was that turning point for me and it was followed by Super 30 and War. There is some sort of composure now and I trust my instincts more than ever. I don’t feel the need to be as meticulous about what I’m going to do for a particular shot and rather just let it all flow. It is a different feeling altogether.

Now, as we step into a new decade, do you have any particular target or plan in mind that you would want to achieve in the coming 10 years?
A decade is a long time and one’s thoughts and goals would either change or evolve during this time period. Having said that, an ideal target to achieve would always be to have a healthy balance between doing some quality work and spending enough time with my family.

There has been a lot of speculation about your next film...
There are a lot of scripts that I am reading right now. When I find the one that I cannot say no to, you will hear from me and that is going to be very soon.

Recently Deepika Padukone said that she and Ranveer Singh couldn’t stop gushing over you while watching War. She also called you ‘death by chocolate.’ How do you take such statements/praises?
I really didn’t know how to react to that (smiles). It was quite flattering. Thanks to Deepika for the compliment. But I also think that it is the magic of the movies. And it is very encouraging, and of course special when people from your own fraternity compliment you in such a manner.

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?

Hrithik Roshan wants to continue exploring uncharted territory after a terrific 2019
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; December 26, 2019)

At the beginning of 2019, no one would have thought how big an impact Hrithik Roshan was going to make with his films. First came Super 30, which saw him strip all the sexiness that one associated with his Greek God image. His portrayal of a mathematician from Bihar, who trains underprivileged IIT aspirants, won hearts and the box office alike. And then, he flexed his muscles to deliver a monster hit with the action film War, which has emerged as the highest grosser of the year. Clearly, 2019 couldn’t have ended on a better note for the 45-year-old. Excerpts:

Super 30 must have been an emotionally tough journey. Before it released, did you have any clue about what fate it will meet?
The journey of Super 30 wasn’t particularly easy because of some tough but important calls that we had to take. As for its fate, of course I had major doubts whether it would work at all, yet I had no choice but to do it because I felt so much emotion and love for this film. Every day on set, I was living life at its best. I was stimulated, passionate and woke up with infallible conviction in my heart about the day’s work. Step by step, it started becoming something so inspirational and moving. And then, the magic that a film like Super 30 created at the box office was heartening to witness.

And you were back in your macho avatar in War. What did its success mean to you?
The success of War, Super 30 or any other movie teaches you only one thing — following your heart and working hard is the best way to work. It reaffirmed my faith in my instincts. Professionally, it has been a celebratory year. We had a small celebration with the team of War after it crossed ₹300 crore. And for Super 30, I had a lovely dinner with Anand (Kumar, the mathematician on whose life the film is based) sir and my family.

Is the box office a deciding factor for you when you sign a film?
Well, by now, I know which characters and traits work at the box office, so I could easily open shop and keep selling them one by one. Or I could keep exploring extremes and unchartered territory as I’ve been doing. As an actor, with my last three films, I’ve found a certain composure now in front of the camera. So, in fact, it would be a great time to explore even more with newer worlds and characters to see how I’d approach them.

Even after the success you’ve achieved, is there something that still intimidates Hrithik the star?
Self-doubt, fear, and uncertainties go hand-in-hand with growth and happiness. These are just signs of living an inspired, stimulated life.

Has your stardom ever come in the way of you portraying any character?
No, because I’ve never let stardom overpower the actor in me. It’s too fickle for it to be taken seriously.

You’ve been voted as the sexiest Asian male of the decade in a UK poll. How do these ‘sexy’ tags given to you repeatedly make you feel?
It’s embarrassingly flattering. However, I see such tags and titles as a compliment and am thankful for them. It’s also encouraging as it makes me feel like I must have done at least something right!

There is speculation about War being turned into a franchise…
Well, it does have the scope, but you should ask this question to Adi (Aditya Chopra, producer) and Sid (Siddharth Anand, director). They are the best people to answer this.

What is the update on the Satte Pe Satta remake and Krrish 4?
I think we should wait for official announcements and stop speculating.

Hrithik Roshan feels no one expects him to dance in every film just because he happens to be a good dancer
Prashant Singh (HINDUSTAN TIMES; November 16, 2019)

Right from the start of his career (Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai; 2000), he has been loved as much for his dancing talent as for his histrionic skills. So much so that Hrithik Roshan’s dance pieces — almost always — become the centre of attraction in his films. But the actor feels there is no hard and fast rule about featuring dance numbers just because of his presence in a movie.

“I think that’s an old thought process, which doesn’t even exist now,” says Hrithik, whose latest moves in the chartbuster, Ghungroo (from War), have been lapped up by audiences. “People are getting far more real about films. Our society is changing and at the end of the day, our films are a reflection of the evolution of our society. The collective consciousness is evolving and becoming more intelligent,” he says.

Before War, Hrithik had hits such as Super 30 and Kaabil, and both didn’t feature him in well-choreographed, dapper dance numbers. “See, our films are also evolving. And when you look at movies through that filter then you won’t expect an actor, who is known for dancing, to dance just because he knows how to, especially in films like Super 30 or Kaabil,” he says.

The 45-year-old actor, who was loved for his dance moves in films such as Kaho Naa..., Lakshya (2004), Dhoom 2 (2006) and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011) among others, says, “Filmmakers are only going by the audience’s instincts. I don’t think anyone is saying, ‘Oh, Hrithik hasn’t danced in Super 30. Why hasn’t he?’ That’s why, at the end of the day, it doesn’t affect anything or translate into anything.”

While Hrithik is on a career high and is set to complete two decades in the industry next year, he is clear that films “have to impact” him. “Otherwise, I can’t do them and won’t even be able to last for those 80-150 days [to shoot a film]. My enthusiasm won’t last because some day, you will reach a stage when it will be so hot and you are so uncomfortable that you will be like, ‘Let it go to hell and let’s get it done somehow’,” he says.

The Jodhaa Akbar (2008)  actor says that he would “never want to reach such a point in my life.” “If you are truly excited by a film, even at 45 degrees and when you’re uncomfortable and don’t want to do what you are doing, that script and that germ of an idea will just keep pushing you. My script becomes fuel for days like that, when I don’t want to get up and work,” he smiles.

Reel vs real
Till now, Hrithik has played a variety of characters, which have been loved by the audiences. But he doesn’t want to take it all seriously. “I don’t think I will ever be comfortable with the guy I portray on screen. That’s my craft and art, put together, twisted into a presentation. If I start thinking I’m that guy, then, there is a problem,” he says. “I can’t ‘act’ like that guy outside that world, or do an impersonation,” he adds.

The actor, who has had two successful films this year, says they encourage him to follow his instincts
Juhi Chakraborty (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 15, 2019)

His latest release, War, is roaring at the box office and just goes on to prove that Hrithik Roshan and action films are a perfect fit. Most of his films in the genre, such as Krrish and Dhoom 2 (both 2006), Agneepath (2012), Bang Bang! (2014) and Kaabil (2017), were well received.

“This success has been the sweetest for me. As for action films and me being a match made in heaven, I’d love to believe it too as it is the genre I enjoy the most,” shares Hrithik.

So, does that mean he will now focus more on similar films? “As an actor, I’ve never stuck to one genre and I don’t want to,” says the 45-year-old, adding, “It’s thrilling for me to experiment, take on challenges and follow my instincts when it comes to picking up projects. So, I want to do everything that excites me, action film or not.”

And a Hrithik fan would know. For the actor hasn’t just remained the romantic heartthrob of Kaho Naa Pyar Hai (2000), but has a wide spectrum of roles to his credit such as in Fiza (2000), Koi Mil Gaya (2003), Guzaarish (2010) and this year’s Super 30. The last film was based on the life of mathematician Anand Kumar. Together with WAR, it makes 2019 a particularly fruitful year for the actor.

“Professionally, it has been a very special year for me. Both the successes have been so empowering. It has only motivated and encouraged me to keep following my instincts and work hard,” he shares.

Since the two films were so different, preparing for them was equally challenging. In fact, Hrithik had to transform from dad bod to Greek God, which wasn’t easy especially as the actor had sustained a slip-disc injury. “It was one of the toughest things I’ve done, physically and emotionally. When I look back at the journey now, I don’t know where that power came from. With a slipped disc and very little time in hand, a bit of hope and a little bit of fear (of not getting back in shape) is what kept me going,” he says.

Though the actor admits the pain has been excruciating, he adds, “I’d be happy to do this all over again”.

And Hrithik is yet to take a call on his next project. Reports say he’s starring in the remake of Satte Pe Satta (1982). If he does indeed join the project, it will be the second time that he will star in the remake of an Amitabh Bachchan film after Agneepath. “I am a huge fan of Mr Bachchan. He has been a great influence on me since my childhood. But I am yet to finalize my next film. I barely got any time with both Super 30 and War releasing back to back,” he says.

Hrithik Roshan on 2019 being a turnaround year as he follows up Super 30 success with War, his biggest opener
Sonil Dedhia (MID-DAY; October 4, 2019)

He may take it slow at the movies, but Hrithik Roshan knows how to keep the box office under his spell. With his latest release War becoming his biggest opener at Rs 51.6 crore, the superstar has bounced back. Add the smashing success of Super 30 earlier this year, and Roshan agrees that 2019 has turned the tide in his favour.

However, box-office numbers were the last thing on his mind when he signed on the hyper-stylised actioner. After intense acts in Kaabil (2017) and Super 30, he was itching to be part of a tentpole movie. "I had been waiting to do an action entertainer for almost five years. My last film in this genre was Bang Bang [2014]. Also, I enjoy playing characters who are composed and intelligent. Such characters are hard to write, so I was happy when I found a script that matched my expectations," says Roshan. Tell him how his chiselled look — with flecks of grey in his hair — has become a talking point, and he beams, "I decided to keep my hair grey. I also added freckles to my face so that people understand the years of experience this character has. Siddharth [Anand, director] was worried that fans may not like this ageing look, but I was confident."

If War was a safe bet, Super 30 was its antithesis. With a story rooted in reality, the Anand Kumar biopic was a gamble for Roshan. "There was a lot of chatter that I am a miscast and I will never be able to pull the role off. But the film's success was a validation for me. If my instincts are right, a film's failure or success doesn't matter. I was driven by strong instincts for both films."

Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; September 25, 2019)

After impressing audiences with his turn as a scruffy-looking Maths professor from Bihar in Super 30, Hrithik Roshan is all set to return to action, literally and figuratively. The actor will be seen doing some daredevil stunts in his upcoming action entertainer, War. The trailer has already created a buzz, and his face-off with Tiger Shroff in the film has piqued interest. Here, the superstar tells us how he has always maintained a variety in his roles, sharing screen space with the younger hero and if he will now do more films now or stick to his style of doing a few movies.     

After playing a heartland character with dishevelled hair and shabby beard in Super 30, you will be seen flaunting your physique and muscles in War. Was it deliberate?
Not at all. When I signed Super 30, there was no War or a script for it. Super 30 was an extremely important project for me because there was a lot of talk about me not being able to fit into that kind of a character. People felt that I was too westernised and it was wrong casting. I read that throughout the year. So, having a success in Super 30 has reaffirmed my belief in myself in a big way. I do very few films, and because of that, I need to know that my instincts are in the right place. I could lose a lot of years and a long duration on the film if one’s gut feeling goes wrong. So, it’s encouraging that my instincts are going right.

What did you like about War?
The script. I’m a fan of action and love doing films in this genre. Unfortunately, I haven’t read very intelligent scripts in this genre. Dhoom 2 was one and Bang Bang, which I loved, and now War. I’ve been looking for this kind of action entertainer, but never found one till I read this script. Also, Sid (Siddharth Anand, director) and I have an equation from Bang Bang. I know how he sees the film. So, it became easy for me to know that this is the kind of movie I’d want to do.

But action films have been a regular staple in Bollywood...
Yes, but they are straightforward and boring for me. The kind of action film I desire to do is intelligent and in the James Bond space. For that, you need a lot of focus on the character like the one I played in Dhoom 2, Bang Bang and now War. They are not the same but they are close to that world — intriguing, mysterious, suave and intelligent. I get a lot of positive feedback when I do those. He’s the guy who never gets perplexed, he is always in control, smooth, witty, and composed. That kind of composure and intelligence is hard to come across in a script here.

War is a two-hero film and you are sharing screen space with Tiger Shroff...
(Cuts in) That was my condition. I said I will do this film, but make sure Tiger Shroff stars in it. That was important for me because I was coming from a Bihari space, I was out of shape, I was not conditioned. And the idea of Tiger standing in front of me was something that could drive me to develop that passion again, to get to my best shape, ever. I wanted somebody who was better than me so that I would do and be at my best.

How challenging was the physical transformation, especially on the back of Super 30?
It was difficult. In fact, that transformation is kind of a film in itself that I have shot. It’s actually become a content piece. I will share that with all my fans at some point. Going from the Bihari world of Super 30 to that of Kabir in War was difficult. They didn’t even give me much time, only about two months. So, I did a lot of crazy things to try and get into shape and finally I managed, but it was painful. The most important thing is to get up and restart — get back to your diet and avoid all the foods that you become used to. Initiative, discipline, sacrifices — those are the hard things. Otherwise, everything else becomes easy.

How difficult was the action in this film?
It was painful, but I enjoyed it because it looks good. Somehow for some reason, I feel I look good when I do action and, that’s my curse because it hurts.

How was the experience of working with Tiger?
Tiger is one of the most disciplined actors I’ve worked with. I’ve also developed a lot more fondness and admiration for him. He is somebody who works without any ego. That’s how I like to work. And I think we’ve done well in this film — both of us have helped each other to be honest.

Usually, when there are two-hero films, there are insecurities about the role or the character. Didn’t you have any such problems on or off the set?
I don’t think I will ever have that because I’m not from the school of wanting to be better than somebody else. I just have to do my best. I’m tuned to that. That skill has developed inside me well. I will never have a problem. In fact, my problem is that I have to make sure that others are at their best so that it’ll drive me to do even better. Whenever I am doing a two-hero or three-hero film, I make sure that everybody else is at their best, if I can help them be better I will do that. Then I will see how it drives me to be better for myself. All the actors who work with me will be happy because I make sure they are better than what they can be.

Any anecdote that you can share from the sets?
The only anecdote that I have probably is the fact that Tiger and I were basically starving! Sid is somebody who is interested in food, so, he used to pile a mountain of food on his plate, while Tiger and I would sit with salads. That was sad, but I had company. Normally, I am on that diet starving all by myself but Tiger was there and we shared a lot of tips on diet and exercise.

Comedy films are in vogue. Will we see you doing any?
I’m extremely keen on doing comedy. I love a certain type of comedy, which is situational and not slapstick. I like straight-faced humour. Hopefully, I’ll get a chance to do that as well. I really enjoy Ben Stiller, Steve Martin and Jerry Lewis’ comedy, they are my favourites. In Hindi, Angoor and Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron are the classics that I enjoy.

There is news about you doing Satte Pe Satta. Is that true?
There are choices on my plate and Satte Pe Satta is one of the options, but I haven’t made up my mind. Once War is out of my way, I will take a call.

You are known to work on one film at a time and don’t do too many movies. Are you planning to change that since content-driven movies are being made more?
No, this is my style and this is how I do my best work. If it takes someone 10 films to reach somewhere and if I can reach there by doing three good films, it’s fine. As far as content or variety is concerned, you will find it in my trajectory. From playing Akbar (in Jodhaa Akbar) to Koi Mil Gaya or Kaabil, in which I played a visually-impaired guy, Anand sir in Super 30 or War, which has me in a cool, sexy image, there is a variety in my movies and characters.

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.

Hrithik Roshan talks about the importance of educators
Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; September 5, 2019)

As a kid, Hrithik Roshan was fond of Science but it’s his turn as a mathematics teacher in Super 30 that has got him both acclaim and box-office success. On Teacher’s Day today, the actor tells us how his perspective towards educators has changed post the film, and his favourite teacher.

Which subjects did you like in school?
As a kid, I was not academically inclined, but I have always been a curious learner. So, to an extent, I enjoyed studying Science. In fact, I still do. I like getting into the depth of things and if a subject interests me, I enjoy doing research on it through books, videos and articles.

Who was your favourite teacher?
I don’t remember having a favourite teacher in school, but my speech therapist Dr Oza (he helped the actor overcome his stammering), comes to my mind. He was the first person who understood my weaknesses and helped me work on it.

How important are teachers in moulding a person?
I’ve said this before — teachers are the true nation-builders. They are the ones who are responsible in shaping the future of society with the thoughts they seed in kids’ minds, the lessons they teach them at such an early stage. That is where change actually begins.

After playing a guru, has it made any difference in your perspective of a teacher?
Absolutely! While portraying Anand Kumar and working on Super 30, I understood more and more about the importance of a teacher. A good guru has the power to transform lives for the better. The value they add to a person’s life is unimaginable. And the testimony to this is hundreds of years old. Even kings would bow down to their teachers.

You penned a note for teachers on social media. Did you try to reach out to any of your teachers?
I haven’t particularly been in touch with any of my teachers from school or university as there was no one-on-one equation with them. However, over the years, there have been people who have taught me a lot in life and I still am in constant touch with them.

Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; August 5, 2019)

He made his debut as a romantic action hero with chocolate-boy looks in Kaho Na... Pyaar Hai (2000), and almost two decades down the line, Hrithik Roshan has turned the narrative upside down by playing a down-to-earth, dark-complexioned Bihari teacher in Super 30. While his first film made him an overnight sensation, his latest release sees him shining in the tale of true hardships. As the superstar says, “The hero is no more a guy with the guitar and a smirk on his face.” Here, he tells us how cinema has changed over the years, his criteria for choosing films, and more.

With the success of Super 30, do you feel that lately, actors who do rooted films connect more with the audiences?
Being someone who has made his debut in 2000, the new millennium, I have seen some really good changes in Indian cinema. The biggest change, however, is that the narrative is becoming more and more inclusive. We have opened ourselves to various experiences and influences, which I believe is working. Super 30 is that tale of inclusion that the audiences have connected to.

What drives you to choose a film? Have the criteria changed over the years?
My criteria for choosing a film hasn’t changed much. I have always picked up scripts depending on my gut feeling and instincts. What could have changed over the years is that the instincts come from a place of more experience. Another important thing while choosing a film is the entertainment value it carries. My father (Rakesh Roshan) always says that if you make films, they ought to be entertaining.

You will be completing two decades in the industry soon.  Do you see a vast difference in the scripts or the content of the film?
The definition of a hero on screen is changing. It is no more a guy with the guitar and a smirk on his face. That’s also because the audience is evolving and are accepting only a different kind of content now.

A Super 30 followed by War, is that a deliberate attempt to balance between larger-than-life roles and playing a common man?
Honestly, I did not plan it like this. But in hindsight, I think it’s a good thing. Because both the characters are very different from each other. Also, for me even the Super 30 character is larger-than-life. The costume or the exterior doesn’t make any character larger-than-life, it’s the journey that does. Anand Kumar isn’t a common man in that sense, he’s a special man.

Horror comedies are now a trend in Bollywood. How open are you to doing one?
I am open to doing absolutely any genre if the script excites me enough. Because if I don’t feel the emotions while reading or hearing a script, then even the audience won’t.

If you were to do another biopic who would you like to play on screen?
I am not particularly looking forward to doing a biopic. What’s important for me is the script. If that is powerful, then I will do it. The same thing happened with Super 30. I did not do it because I wanted to do a biopic. I happened to like a script which was a biopic. It did not take me more than 30 seconds to say yes to the script. Because it moved me, made me happy and feel various emotions.

What is the status on Krrish 4?
It is in the final stages of scripting right now. We are sure that if this film is being made, then we have to take it to a much higher level.

There is news about you doing a film with Sara Ali Khan and Dhanush in Aanand L Rai’s next...
That’s not true. I haven’t got any call from anyone as of now. But I am a huge fan of Aanand sir’s work.

Any plans of turning director?
Right now, I am enjoying doing different characters on screen as an actor so this thought hasn’t come to my mind but perhaps sometime in the future. Why not!

You and Sussanne Khan have been setting goals in how to be amicably together with the children even after a divorce. Has it been easy? 
It’s sad that my equation with Sussanne is looked upon as rare when it should be common practice to strive towards peace and happiness, especially for our children. Even now, some people ask me why I am so good to my ex, and I explain to them that as a father, I am bringing up two men, and they need to know that their mother is loved and respected. They need to learn that two people can be separated but still stand united as a family.