Actor Randeep Hooda opens up about the harrowing experience of losing weight repeatedly for his role in Swatantra Veer Savarkar. He admits the toll it took on his health, confessing he feared for his life.

In an exclusive interview with mid-day, Hooda reveals the grueling journey he embarked on to portray his character in Swatantrya Veer Savarkar.

Shedding a staggering 32 kilos and maintaining an underweight frame for 18 months proved to be emotionally and physically taxing.

Challenges and Near-Death Experiences

The actor shares how the film’s delayed production schedule pushed him to the brink. Recalling an incident where he fainted and fell from a horse, Hooda reflects on the severity of his condition. He underwent a painful recovery process and endured “revenge eating” to regain strength.

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The Perils of Rapid Weight Loss

With the revival of the film project, Hooda faced the daunting task of losing weight rapidly once again. Adopting a fast mimicking diet, he aimed for a kilo-a-day weight loss target. However, this period was marred by fainting spells and frustration due to the relentless efforts required.

A Test of Patience and Health

Playing the role of actor and director added another layer of challenge for Hooda. He admits to losing patience quickly and expresses concerns about his prolonged underweight condition. Despite the ordeal, he emphasizes the importance of looking the part for an actor.

Lessons Learned and Future Plans

Reflecting on his experience, Hooda expresses his desire to work with considerate individuals who prioritize both project quality and his health. While he doesn’t rule out similar transformations in the future, he emphasizes the need for better safeguards and contractual agreements.

Commercial Disappointments

Despite his dedication, both Swatantrya Veer Savarkar and Sarbjit failed to make a mark at the box office. Hooda’s immense sacrifices, both mentally and physically, unfortunately did not translate into commercial success.

In conclusion, Randeep Hooda’s transformation journey for Swatantrya Veer Savarkar sheds light on the extreme lengths actors go to for their craft. However, it also raises important questions about the industry’s responsibility towards the well-being of its performers.