Gurmeet Choudhary, dynamic actor and intense martial arts specialist, opens up about his zestful career in entertainment and rocking personal life.
By Andrea CostaBir
A potent force, Gurmeet Choudhary has been carving his own unique niche in the Indian television and film industry over the last 15 years. Applauded for his charismatic screen presence and versatile talent, he earned respect and captured hearts with his portrayal of Lord Ram in the epic series ‘Ramayan’. Exceptional roles in hit TV shows like ‘Geet – Hui Sabse Parayi’ and ‘Punar Vivaah’ followed…
Proving his mettle as a rocking entertainer with his incredible dance moves, he won ‘Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 5’, and further proved he’s up for any challenge when he gave us a taste of his daredevilry in ‘Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi’. Gurmeet also made his bold debut with ‘Khamoshiyan’ in Bollywood.
Beyond his body of work, Gurmeet is the poster boy of martial arts and fitness. And his philanthropic impact, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he actively worked to support relief initiatives, showed us his caring, empathetic persona.
Married to his ‘Ramayan’ co-star Debina Bonnerjee, they have two children and as a family, they are focused on moving from strength to strength… Here’s wishing Gurmeet Choudhary continued inspiration and happiness – both on and off the screen.
Excerpts from the interview…
Gurmeet, please give us an insight into what made you pursue acting as a career, and how did you get started in the entertainment industry?
I was always drawn to the arts from a young age. Acting fascinated me because of the ability to live multiple lives and tell stories that resonate with people. My journey began when I moved to Mumbai with dreams of making it big in the industry. Like many others, I faced struggles and rejections, but my passion for acting kept me going. It was a mix of perseverance, dedication, and being at the right place at the right time that helped me get my first break.
Your role in ‘Ramayan’ was a significant breakthrough in your career. How did playing Lord Ram shape your acting career and public persona?
Playing Lord Ram in ‘Ramayan’ was a pivotal moment in my career. The role came with immense responsibility, as I was portraying a personality who is revered and loved by millions. It wasn’t just about acting; it was about embodying virtues like kindness, righteousness and leadership. The portrayal of Lord Ram not only brought me widespread recognition, but also established me as an actor who could carry significant roles with grace and authenticity. It shaped my public persona as someone who values tradition and morals, which resonates with many people across the country.
You’ve been part of several successful TV shows, including ‘Geet – Hui Sabse Parayi’ and ‘Punar Vivaah’. Then you made your film debut with ‘Khamoshiyan’. What was your experience like, transitioning from television to films?
Transitioning from television to films was both challenging and exciting. TV gave me the platform to hone my acting skills, but films require a different approach in terms of intensity and scale. When I debuted with ‘Khamoshiyan’, it was a new learning curve. The expectations were higher, and the audience was different. The transition helped me grow as an artiste, pushing me to explore new facets of my craft. It was an enriching experience that made me more versatile and adaptable.
When did you start practicing martial arts, and what drew you to this discipline?
I started practicing martial arts a few years ago. Initially, it was to maintain my fitness levels, but gradually, I got drawn to the discipline because of the mental and physical strength it provides. Martial arts isn’t just about combat; it’s about focus, self-control, and pushing your limits. It complements my acting career by helping me stay fit, agile and disciplined, which are essential qualities for any actor.
Can you describe your daily fitness routine?
My daily fitness routine is a mix of different activities. I usually start my day with yoga to calm my mind and body. This is followed by a rigorous workout session that includes weight training, cardio and martial arts practice. I also ensure that I incorporate some form of outdoor activity, like running or cycling, to keep things fresh and interesting. Diet plays a crucial role, so I focus on eating clean and healthy, with occasional cheat meals.
Evolving as a person and an artiste over the years, what lessons have you learned along the way?
Over the years, I’ve learned to be more patient, understanding and focused on personal growth. As an artiste, I’ve evolved by taking on diverse roles and constantly challenging myself. The key lesson I’ve learned is to stay true to oneself, no matter what. The industry can be tough, but staying grounded, working hard and maintaining integrity has helped me navigate the highs and lows of my career.
How has your marriage to actress Debina Bonnerjee influenced your career and personal growth? How do you support each other’s professional journeys?
Debina has been a significant influence on both my career and personal growth. She is my strongest critic and my biggest supporter. We complement each other well, and our relationship has taught me the value of partnership, understanding and mutual respect. Her presence in my life has helped me stay balanced and focused, both personally and professionally. We support each other’s careers and make decisions together, which has strengthened our bond over the years.
You and Debina have worked together on several projects. How do you find working with your spouse, and what unique dynamic does it bring to your performances?
Working with Debina is always a pleasure. We share a great on-screen chemistry, which translates into our performances. Knowing each other so well allows us to bring authenticity and depth to the characters we portray. The unique dynamic is our understanding and trust, which makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. We push each other to perform better, and that reflects in our work.
What strategies do you use to ensure quality time with your wife and kids?
Balancing professional commitments with family life requires careful planning and prioritisation. I make it a point to spend quality time with Debina and our children, no matter how busy my schedule gets. Family comes first, and I believe in being present for them. We often plan our schedules in a way that allows us to be together as much as possible. It’s about finding that balance where neither work nor family life suffers.
How has becoming a parent changed your perspective on life and work? What lessons do you hope to impart to your children?
Becoming a parent has been a life-changing experience. It has brought a new sense of responsibility and purpose to my life. My perspective on work has also shifted — I now think more about the kind of legacy I want to leave behind for my children. I want to impart values like hard work, honesty and compassion to them. Parenthood has made me more patient and understanding, both in my personal and professional life.
Does your family support you in your career, especially during challenging times?
My family has been my pillar of strength throughout my career. During challenging times, their unwavering support and belief in me have kept me going. Debina, especially, has always stood by me, offering advice and encouragement. Their love and understanding make it easier to navigate the pressures of the industry. Knowing that I have a strong support system gives me the confidence to take on new challenges.
What advice would you give to other couples in the entertainment industry on maintaining a healthy and supportive relationship amidst the pressures of showbiz?
My advice would be to prioritise communication and trust. The entertainment industry can be demanding, but having a strong partnership can make all the difference. It’s essential to support each other’s dreams and be there during both successes and failures. Spending quality time together, respecting each other’s space, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance are crucial. Always remember that your relationship is your foundation, so nurture it with love and care.
Any upcoming projects or roles that you’re excited about? What can your fans look forward to?
Yes, there are a few projects in the pipeline that I’m excited about. While I can’t reveal too much right now, my fans can look forward to seeing me in roles that are both challenging and different from what I’ve done before. I’m always looking for scripts that offer something unique and allow me to push my boundaries as an actor.
