Sportsman’s spirit
National Sports Day is celebrated every year on August 29. This day is dedicated not only to professional athletes but also to those whose lives have been touched by sports in meaningful ways. There are many Bollywood celebs, who pursued sports before they took to acting. Let’s take a look at some of these stars who are known for their sports background.
Aditya Seal: Martial Arts
The Khel Khel Mein actor Aditya Seal has been a dedicated martial artist for many years, specialising in taekwondo. He began his training at the age of 15 and continues to practice the art to this day. Aditya holds a black belt and has taken part in numerous tournaments, both in India and South Korea, where won gold medals. Martial arts have become a way of life for him.
Saiyami Kher: Sprinting/cricket/badminton
Before stepping into the world of cinema, Saiyami Kher was active in sports. She played cricket, badminton and sprinting and took part in zonal and district-level tournaments. Currently, she is preparing for an international sporting event known as Ironman. This triathlon race will see her compete in cycling, swimming, and sprinting, showcasing her versatile athletic skills and dedication to sports.
Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia: Sprinter
The Khatron Ke Khiladi contestant Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia was an avid sports enthusiast during her academic years in Delhi. Nimrit excelled as a sprinter, participating in various zonal tournaments and securing first place in the 100, 200, and 400-meter races.
Richa Chadha: Kabaddi
Richa Chadha, known for her versatility as an actor, was a dedicated kabaddi player during her school days in Delhi. The Fukrey actress, who recently became a mother, represented her school in zonal kabaddi tournaments. Her training in kabaddi proved invaluable when she was cast in the film Panga, in which she played a kabaddi player.
Anushka Ranjan: Swimming
Anushka Ranjan, an actor and humanitarian best known for her foundation for the girl child, Beti, once aspired to be a professional swimmer. During her school days, Anushka actively participated in various inter-school and zonal swimming competitions, earning accolades for both herself and her school. Although she eventually pursued a career in acting, Anushka’s passion for swimming remains strong. Whenever she finds the time, she returns to the pool, reconnecting with her first love.
Gulshan Devaiah: Javelin
Gulshan Devaiah, one of the most talented actors of recent times, was a sports enthusiast and excelled as a javelin thrower during his academic years. The Ulajh actor ranked number one at district-level sporting events, but he couldn’t quite make it to the state level. This led him to explore his other talents, eventually trying out fashion design and later acting.
Akshay Oberoi: Sprinting
Akshay Oberoi, the blue-eyed boy who recently garnered much love and success for his performance in Fighter, was a sports enthusiast long before making his mark in the film industry. Born and raised in New Jersey, Akshay was an avid cross-country marathon sprinter during his university days. He participated in various marathons across the US.
Ali Fazal: Basketball
Before Ali Fazal became an actor, he was a basketball player during his days in Doon School. Ali actively participated in various zonal and intercollegiate basketball tournaments and initially aspired to pursue a career in basketball. However, due to a serious injury, he was forced to step away from the sport and explore alternative career paths. This unexpected turn of events ultimately led him to the world of acting.
