Known for his performance in the film Khaali Peeli, actor Ranjit Punia’s latest to hit the screens was Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui with Ayushmann Khurrana. He played the role of Vaani Kapoor’s brother in the movie. Before turning actor, Ranjit was into modeling for several years and also walked the ramp for many top fashion designers.

When did you decide that you want to become an actor?
I always wanted to become an actor. I started doing music videos while I was in Punjab. That is how I was noticed by somebody who suggested that I should get into modeling. With the kind of physique and features that I had I was told to get into fashion and ramp modeling. I took that advice seriously and went to Delhi. I was lucky to be a part of some really amazing modeling campaigns and then I started getting some really good fashion shows. I did a lot of fashion modelling assignments in Delhi and Mumbai. But soon I realised that this is not what I wanted to do in life. My calling was acting. Hence, I decided to join the acting industry. Modeling had become quite monotonous for me and I wanted to do something more creative. There was no growth in modeling. There could not have been anything better than stepping into the world of acting.

Would you like to share something about your upcoming Telugu movie?
My Telugu film is based on a real-life event and I play the main negative lead in the film. The character that I play is very dark and cold. The story itself is very dark. I cannot reveal much about the film ‘Revenge’ and the story right now, but I would definitely like to talk more about it when the time is right.

Who is your favourite South Indian actor and director?
I like Allu Arjun. I admire the kind of work he is doing. I watched Pushpa recently and I absolutely loved the movie.

Among the Directors, Sukumar is doing a good job. I also like Prashanth Neel who has directed KGF. The entire KGF experience is just next level.

Would you like to share something that most people don’t know about Bollywood?
The world of tinsel town is not easy as it looks. It is very difficult. The struggle here is just like in any other profession. And just like in the medical or engineering field you require a lot of training to become successful. I would suggest all the newcomers to undergo proper training before they plan to enter into the industry. I am fortunate enough to be able to receive training under the seasoned actor Neeraj Kabi.

Any memorable experiences working with Vaani Kapoor, John Abraham and Ayushmann?
Everybody knows that Ayushmann is a seasoned actor. He has played a variety of roles and all his roles are different from each other. He is extremely passionate about his work. But I was fascinated by the fact that he speaks impeccable Punjabi. Both of us hail from Chandigarh, while he is from Panchkula, I am from Mohali.
Vaani Kapoor is a very hard-working actress. She is always ready to give her inputs for the scenes. She is very supportive. I had a great bond with both of them.

John is a very humble person. There are a lot of things to learn from him. Most of my scenes are with Rakulpreet, but whenever John was there, the entire atmosphere on the set was different. Even he began his career as a model and has now achieved so much in life. He has always been an inspiration for me. So overall it was a great learning experience in both the films.

What’s your fitness routine?
I have always had an inclination towards fitness. I was an athlete during school time and I was also a handball player. So, I always had to be fit for the game. Even during my modelling days, since I was a fashion model, it was necessary and important for me to be fit.
I always try to stick to my fitness routine, even when I am in the middle of a shoot. Even during the lockdown, I tried my best to continue my workout and remain fit. Although gyms were closed then I use to go for runs and did free weights and stuff. The most difficult part of maintaining a fitness regime for an actor is during the time of shoots. When you’re on shoots, there is no time frame that you follow. Sometimes the shoot goes on for a long time and you do not get that time to do your daily workouts. But I still manage to work out at least thrice a week.

What’s your favourite workout?
Since I was an athlete during school days, I have loved running right from the beginning. I love a lean figure so I have kept my physique like that. But if ever there is a requirement of playing a bulky or built-up character, I do not mind transforming myself accordingly.

What is your 2022 resolution?
Resolution 2022 would be to do more work. I’m sure I’m going to sign up some good projects with meaningful characters. I would love to entertain more and more people through my good work.

– By Vinitha Venkatesha