Actress Kiran Khoje, who has made her OTT debut with Dry Day, talks about the series and the importance of fitness

There is a constant pressure in the acting profession to maintain a certain image. How do you manage to navigate this and stay true to yourself?

Yes, it’s true that there is always the expectation to look good, stay healthy and appear fresh in the entertainment industry. However, I believe it’s crucial not to succumb to the pressure. If I focus on feeling confident and good for myself, rather than meeting external expectations, I naturally present myself as healthy and fit on screen!

How do you strike a balance between your hectic schedule and maintaining a healthy lifestyle?

My fitness philosophy revolves around consistency in my diet, exercise routine and daily habits. I emphasise on home-cooked meals, and in today’s tech-filled world I find it essential to start the day without electronic devices. Connecting with nature by observing plants, appreciating the sunrise and absorbing the surroundings sets a positive tone for the day, and contributes significantly to my overall fitness.

Juggling a busy schedule, especially in Mumbai, can make it challenging to stick to a diet. How do you manage to maintain a healthy eating routine amidst the hustle and bustle?

It’s indeed a challenge, especially with the hustle in Mumbai. Prioritising home-cooked meals is the key but when eating out is inevitable, I opt for healthier choices. Regular eating schedules, avoiding crash diets and carrying small tiffins with nuts or fruits help ensure a balanced diet throughout the day.

How do you maintain your mental health?

Mental fitness is paramount and acknowledging its importance is the first step. Starting the day without immediately checking the phone, spending time amid nature and incorporating meditation or slowing down the thought processe are practices I find beneficial. Yoga and therapy are excellent options to enhance both mental as well as physical well-being.

What in your opinion is the toughest part of staying committed to your well-being?

Maintaining consistency is undoubtedly the toughest part. It requires dedicating time, and it’s not just about looking a certain way for a role. Allocating at least an hour daily for well-being is crucial and even if circumstances lead to missing that hour, I make it a priority to take out half-an-hour at any time during the day to stay committed to my fitness regimen.

How do you handle the highs and lows of the industry?

In our industry, the highs and lows are more visible. There are days when you might feel overwhelmed with work and others when you wonder if you’ve chosen the wrong profession. It’s essential to understand that these fluctuations are normal. Making contacts, continuous self-improvement and trusting oneself are vital. Not everyone gets work at the same pace, and that’s okay. The industry has evolved and is providing opportunities for actors of all ages, especially with the rise of OTT platforms.

What advice would you give to aspiring actors dealing with similar kind of challenges?

Trust yourself, work hard and be persistent. Develop a strong work ethic, maintain humility and be kind to everyone around you. Success in this industry is a journey not a destination, and every experience, whether high or low, contributes to your growth.

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