ONE of the greatest sporting idols to ever emerge from India, Mahendra Singh Dhoni rose up from a humble beginning to achieve incredible success as a cricketer and has countless magical moments that enchanted an entire nation.
The heroic wicketkeeper and batsman has over a billion fans worldwide, including Thanesh From Tamil Nadu, India, who runs a popular fan club dedicated to him. Eastern Eye caught up with Thanesh recently to find out more...
What made you decide to set up the fan club?
I wanted to connect with people
who love my idol. I dreamt of bringing smiles to all the people who loved him, just like me, so I set up the fan club.
Tell us about your fan club...
Our fan club is a place for exchanging thoughts and feelings. We spread DHONIsm to one and all, and make the world a better place for MS Dhoni fans.
What has been your most memorable moment?
Probably when other popular celebrities claim themselves as fans of my idol MSD. That’s when me as a fan boy feels excited and proud.
What is the best thing you like about your idol?
His demi-god status! Yes, that’s the best thing about my idol. Dhoni never really cares about his stardom. He keeps his achievements in his house and comes onto the field like a nobody and gives his best.
What is your best Dhoni moment?
He has given us fans so many magical and heroic moments that will remain with us forever. So probably his existence is my favourite moment.
Tell us an interesting fact about him...
MS Dhoni is not just an athlete, but a cricketing revolution. He is more of a visionary on life and doesn’t need any introduction across the country.
What is your definition of a true fan?
Apart from parents, if there is someone in the whole world who selflessly adores and well wishes a person, then it has to be the fans. Fans have very less logics and a lot of emotions. Their idol’s success is their success.
R Madhavan shares his experience portraying a father’s role for the first time alongside Ajay Devgn.
Actor addresses rumours about de-ageing technology, confirming he relied on diet and fitness instead.
Madhavan reflects on sequels and preparation for previous physically demanding roles like Saala Khadoos.
Nervous about a father’s role
At the trailer launch of De De Pyaar De 2, R Madhavan admitted he was initially nervous about playing Ajay Devgn’s on-screen father-in-law.
“I have never done a father’s role before, and competing with Ajay, I was very nervous,” Madhavan said. “I have seen other actors who are so busy when they come to the set, but Ajay sir is always present and dedicated. We have always felt connected.”
The actor also commented on the appeal of sequels. Devgn, who stars alongside Madhavan, stated, “I don’t mind sequels as long as there is a good script. I hope the film is liked by audiences. We all believe we have made a good film.”
Madhavan addressed recent rumours about de-ageing technology in his films, stating, “They’ve all been accusing me of de-ageing, but I don’t think I have the budget for that. It hasn’t happened.”
Instead, the actor relies on traditional methods of preparation, including fitness and diet adjustments, to meet the physical demands of roles.
Reflections on past roles
Madhavan reflected on the preparation for his earlier role in Saala Khadoos, a physically demanding sports drama. “When I went to train for Saala Khadoos, I consulted numerous dieticians and several people who advised me on how to lose weight and get fit, what diet to follow, what time to eat, and so on, but I couldn’t find anyone I truly resonated with,” he said.
The actor’s candid reflections reveal a focus on dedication and personal preparation rather than technological shortcuts, highlighting his commitment to authentic performances.
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