On the occasion of National Sports Day, actor Aasif Khan—currently playing the lead role of Siddharth in Dangal TV‘s popular show Kaisi Teri Dillagi—shares how sports, physical conditioning, and mental resilience shape his life both on and off the set.
For Aasif, physical activity is more than just maintaining a screen-ready appearance; it is a vital pillar for mental clarity, discipline, and emotional balance. Engaging in sports builds internal stamina and provides an essential release from high-pressure routines, offering a grounded way to stay calm, focused, and energised.
When asked about the sport that catches his attention, Aasif candidly admitted to a secret spectator guilt and a sport he wishes he had mastered. “Kabaddi,” Aasif shared, naming the sport he is secretly obsessed with watching but would completely fail at trying himself. As for the sport he wishes he were secretly a pro at? “Basketball.”
When it comes to fitness inspiration within the fraternity, Aasif doesn’t hesitate to acknowledge talent. “Shantanu Maheshwari,” he stated, naming him as the most athletic co-star and industry friend he has ever worked with or seen.
Workouts demand discipline, and if given the chance to walk in the shoes of a world-class athlete for a week, Aasif already has a specific regimen in mind. “Of course, Virat Kohli,” Aasif said. “The reason is that his tactics for focusing on his goals are remarkable.”
Long before stepping in front of the camera, sports played a hands-on role in Aasif’s formative years, shaping his approach to modern fitness routines.
“It actually has helped me in a way, while I was playing for a football club,” Aasif reflected on how sports shaped his upbringing. “But since I had to travel to different states for work, I couldn’t continue it that often.”
Even today, football remains his go-to reference point for physical endurance. “I loved playing football. I wanted to look lean always, for which running is the best, but I kind of don’t play it often because of the work schedule,” he noted regarding the most intense physical habit he picked up for a sports-centric role.
Whether on the field or on set, dealing with high-stakes pressure and occasional rejection requires a reliable mental strategy. Aasif relies on a simple yet powerful practice to reset after a demanding day. “Getting back to my zero state and neglecting every noise around me, taking only the positive feedback,” Aasif shared.
