Neil Bhoopalam on life and fitness at 42: ‘My trainer makes sure I work out 5 times a week’

Q. You have been a part of the industry for almost two decades. How would you describe your journey, and where does your experience with The Horse fit in?

Neil Bhoopalam: It’s been an eventful rollercoaster ride, and I feel like I’m just getting started. Aadyam has been a golden opportunity for me and fellow artists—this is my fourth participation across their seven seasons.

Q. Over the years, you’ve experimented with films, OTT, and theatre. Which medium do you enjoy the most and why?

Neil Bhoopalam: For me, it’s acting in different arenas. Each format gives me a different experience, and each medium has its own grammar of storytelling. Hard to pick a favourite—any opportunity to act, and I’ll take it. Now, I’m waiting for virtual reality to become more fiction-friendly and accessible.

Q. Despite being a familiar face on screen, you often return to the stage. What keeps you coming back to the theatre?

Neil Bhoopalam: Out of 365 days, I aim for 150 working days—75 for theatre and 75 for commercial work. It’s a reasonable ask from the universe. Acting is my profession, but theatre is my passion. I’ll always practice as a theatre actor.

Q. Tell us about your character in The Horse, and why you agreed to take it on.

Neil Bhoopalam: That’s easy—because of Mr Sunil Shanbag, our director! I had been waiting patiently to work with him, and I owe huge thanks to Aadyam for making it happen. Plus, it’s a comedy. Wow—laughter really is the best medicine.

Q. Rejections, failed projects, trolling, and shelved movies are part of the industry. How do you prioritise mental health?

Neil Bhoopalam: I feel beer really helps. When everything comes crashing down at once, a swim in a pool of beer can take your troubles away!

Q. How do you keep yourself fit at 42? Has your idea of fitness changed over the years?

Neil Bhoopalam: Willpower is overrated. I have a trainer, Vivek Jagtap, who makes sure I work out five times a week. And my wife Nandini works out more than I do—so I’m forced to exercise and eat clean. I can’t risk not being my son’s favourite parent.

Q. What’s the most challenging thing you’ve done for a role—physically or mentally?

Neil Bhoopalam: I recently played a role in Chhaava, and it was one of the most gruelling experiences. Weeks of action training, diction training, and horse riding. Luckily, the horse riding came in handy for this play too.

Neil Bhoopalam in a scene from The Horse. (Photo: PR handout)

Q. One thing not many people know about you.

Neil Bhoopalam: I have four bodies in my basement—but please don’t tell the police!

Q. How is your role in The Horse different from anything you’ve done before?

Neil Bhoopalam: I haven’t done much comedy or satire, and this play is a beautiful fusion of both.

Q. From The Horse to other projects—what do you look for in a role before saying yes?

Neil Bhoopalam: If I would want to watch the story as an audience member, then I would also want to perform in it.

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