Bollywood actor Sidharth Malhotra, a familiar face known for his captivating performances and striking presence, is embarking on a new and profoundly transformative chapter: fatherhood. While navigating sleepless nights and diaper duties, Malhotra also reflects on the unwavering dedication to fitness and an evolving sense of style that has defined his career, all while acknowledging the challenging path he carved as an outsider in the competitive film industry.
Embracing Fatherhood: A New Role Beyond the Screen
Sidharth Malhotra and his wife, Kiara Advani, joyfully announced the expectation of their first child in February 2023, and recently welcomed a baby girl. The actor has candidly shared insights into this new phase of life, admitting that fatherhood has completely reshaped his daily routine. He humorously recounted waking up for 3-4 AM feedings and being involved in diaper changes, even experiencing the occasional “oops moment” without a diaper. Malhotra described himself as a “supporting actor” in this new household dynamic, cherishing every moment alongside his wife.
He has also openly discussed the profound responsibility that comes with being a father, emphasizing the importance of instilling strong values, ethics, and kindness in children. Malhotra believes that while being male is by birth, being a man is a choice, underscoring the significance of accountability and sensitivity in relationships. He aims to raise his child with a strong moral compass, emphasizing that sensitivity and kindness are as crucial as strength.
The Evolution of Fitness: More Than Just a Workout
For Sidharth Malhotra, fitness has always been more than just a physical grind; it’s a commitment to balance and mental well-being. He considers exercise a daily habit and an addiction, emphasizing its importance for overall health in today’s lifestyle. His routine is a diverse blend of traditional and innovative techniques, including cardio, weight training, running, swimming, yoga, and even martial arts. He notably incorporates aqua training, leveraging water resistance for an effective yet low-impact workout.
Malhotra’s fitness philosophy also extends to his diet, prioritizing wholesome, unprocessed, organic, and homemade foods. He focuses on lean proteins, fresh vegetables, and fruits, while managing his sweet tooth with healthier alternatives like dark chocolate. He has even experimented with veganism for certain roles, demonstrating his adaptability to character requirements. This holistic approach to fitness ensures he maintains a physique suitable for demanding roles, like his portrayal of Captain Vikram Batra in Shershaah, which required intense training at high altitudes.
Fashion Forward: Effortless Style with a Masculine Edge
Sidharth Malhotra’s fashion sense is frequently in the spotlight, celebrated for its effortless elegance and subtle masculine edge. Having started his career as a fashion model, he consistently emphasizes the importance of a perfect fit, investing time to ensure each piece is tailored to perfection. His style mantra revolves around comfort and confidence, believing that if an outfit complements one’s physique and makes them feel good, they’re halfway there.
His fashion journey has evolved significantly, influenced by the diverse characters he has portrayed on screen. While on-screen wardrobes are collaborative and tied to a character’s narrative, his everyday style prioritizes comfort and simplicity. Malhotra enjoys experimenting with new silhouettes, subtle textures, and easy prints, often opting for co-ord sets, especially in Mumbai, where linen makes practical sense. He strongly believes that men’s fashion has tremendously evolved, offering a wide range of options for personal expression, challenging traditional notions of menswear.
The Outsider’s Ascent: No Safety Net, Just Persistence
One of the most compelling aspects of Sidharth Malhotra’s story is his journey as an outsider in Bollywood. Hailing from Delhi with no film background, he openly admits that he had “no safety net” when he entered the industry. His father was a retired merchant navy officer, and no one from his family was connected to the film business.
Malhotra started his career as a model at 18 to earn pocket money, then worked as an assistant director for Karan Johar on My Name Is Khan before making his acting debut in Student Of The Year in 2012. He faced challenges in securing films and has spoken about feeling isolated in Mumbai. Despite facing criticism for his acting in earlier stages and dealing with periods of low work, his “stubborn attitude” and dedication to not stop trying have been crucial to his success.
His journey, marked by numerous rejections and ups and downs, is a testament to the power of persistence. Malhotra emphasizes that one doesn’t need a shortcut or a background to make it, proving this through his acclaimed performances in films like Ek Villain, Kapoor & Sons, and Shershaah. He hopes to inspire youngsters by demonstrating that anything is possible with dedication and conviction, and that one should always live by their gut instincts.
Balancing Act: Personal and Professional Growth
As Sidharth Malhotra embraces fatherhood and continues his professional endeavors, including his upcoming rom-com Param Sundari opposite Janhvi Kapoor, the balancing act becomes increasingly vital. He has learned to manage his personal and professional life, recognizing the importance of taking time off to maintain mental health and avoid burnout. This dedication to a holistic approach allows him to channel his energy effectively into his work and his new role as a doting dad. His evolution from an aspiring outsider to a family man and established actor exemplifies a journey of continuous growth, on and off the screen.
