Back in action

Visibly elated,for winning the award after 17 long years in the industry,Shetty says,”It is a fabulous feeling. When I began as an actor,majority of my critics called me ‘wooden’ or ‘expressionless’ and even passed a verdict saying that I can’t act. This award that I have received at the SAIFF in New York proves my worth and inspires me to work harder and better.”

Talking more about the character that he plays in the movie – Red Alert,Shetty says,“The film addresses the issue of Naxalism and I play a Naxalite. Moreover,with the alarming growth of the problem the movie will be an eye opener for the general public.”

Shetty who has ventured into diverse genres of acting after starting out as an action hero has a lot to share. He says,“When I entered industry,I didn’t know anything about acting and today I am more than 100 films old. Even though acting came to me naturally it wasn’t an easy expedition. I went through considerable lows when I tried to experiment initially. I established myself as an action hero and switched to comedy when I was on my peak,which wasn’t accepted easily by the audience. It was only after Hera Pheri that people recognised my worth as a comedian and then other comedies followed.”

On entering direction and springing forth another surprise for his fan Suniel has some interesting thoughts. “Direction needs a lot of creativity and fine art,it is also a very time consuming job. I have too much on my shoulders for now and I don’t see myself made for it,” he says.

Sharing the magic mantra of good health the 48-year-old muscle man says,“I believe in following simple fundamental dietary methods,due to which I stand in good shape. The method of having breakfasts like a king,lunches like a prince and dinners like a pauper,has always worked for me. I have also been an avid fan of sports and it has helped me keeping fit and stress free.”

“Even today if I were to choose between Suniel Shetty the actor or the sportsman,I’d choose sports,for the simple reason that it is one of the few things that helps us develop not only a humble outlook towards life but also take success and failure in our stride,” he concludes.