Randeep Hooda on fame, isolation, and mental health: ‘I’ve mastered the art of disappearing into my own world’

In this candid conversation, the actor — who recently married Lin Laishram — opens up about his passions, his love for horses, the most challenging role he has prepared for, and why his PR team often needs to pull him out of his slumber. Read the edited excerpts below:

Q. From acting and horse riding to cars, and now writing –– tell us about the many hats you wear.

Randeep Hooda: They’re all things I genuinely enjoy, but as life goes on, it’s not always easy to find the time to pursue each to the level of excellence you’d like. The interesting thing is, one passion feeds into another. My photography has influenced how I frame shots in films. My horses keep me grounded – they don’t care who you are, and that keeps you real. My Fridays are sacred. These aren’t just hobbies; I do them for my own sanity.

Q. You’ve been in the film industry for nearly 25 years. How has the journey been?

Randeep Hooda: It’s been a journey of ups and downs, highs and lows, but I’ve stayed at it. Every time I’m knocked down, I get back up and keep going. More often than not, that race isn’t with anyone else; it’s with yourself.

My horses keep me grounded – they don’t care who you are, and that keeps you real. (Photo: Express Archives)

Q. What has been the most challenging thing you’ve done for a role?

Randeep Hooda: Isolation, physical and mental. Completely cutting myself off from the world, slipping into a character’s mindset, and staying there for long stretches… it takes a toll. But sometimes that’s what it takes to do justice to a story.

Q. Fame often comes with constant limelight and scrutiny. How do you protect your mental health?

Randeep Hooda: If it starts taking a toll on your mental health, maybe you’re in the wrong place. The truth is, you can control it, you can avoid it. I’ve mastered the art of disappearing into my own world until my PR and social media team drag me out and make life busier than it needs to be. Fame is a funny thing, when you don’t have it, you want everyone to know you. When you do, you’re hiding behind dark glasses and a cap. The pressure only builds when you’re not where you truly want to be.

Q. You’re admired for your lean and ripped physique. What’s your fitness routine?

Randeep Hooda: A bit of weight and strength training, and some cardio in different forms. But honestly, 80–90 per cent of it comes down to diet. That’s where I slip… desserts always manage to win!

A Bhatt with Randeep Hooda in the film Highway. (Express archive photo.)

Q. If not working or riding, where are you most likely to be found?

Randeep Hooda: In the heart of nature, spending quiet evenings in the forest with a glass of my favourite drink.

Q. How was it to be part of the Blenders Pride Four Elements launch?

Randeep Hooda: As someone from Haryana, it was special to be part of the launch in my home state. Presenting the four fundamental elements through fashion is innovative and allowed me to embody the essence of this exceptional blend. I’m honoured to have been part of a spectacle that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and excellence.