‘It's been my dream to play a hero'

TIGER SHROFF TALKS BAAGHI 2, HIS STRICT FITNESS REGIME, FAMILY INSPIRATION AND PERFECT ROLES

RISING star Tiger Shroff roars into action again with this week’s big Bollywood release Baaghi 2.

The fierce first-look trailer showing the muscle-bound actor doing some high-octane scenes has generated a lot of interest and added to his grow­ing reputation in Hindi cinema.

He stars opposite Disha Patani in the Sajid Nadi­adwala-produced story of a skilled army officer look­ing for a little girl and taking on dark forces in the process. I caught up with Tiger to find out more...

What attracted you to Baaghi 2?

I was ready from the word go when Sajid sir told me that he is planning to do Baaghi 2, which will be an even bigger attempt than Baaghi. The story had the perfect balance of romance and action, which I felt instantly connected to.

Tell us about the film and character you play?

It is a completely different film from the first one, a fresh new film with great visuals along with a very good story. It is a sequel with the same essence of the first, but has nothing to do with part one.

As for my character, I play an army officer who goes in search of his ex-girlfriend’s child. It’s a character I’ve never played before, so I was really excited when I was approached for the film.

Is it fair to say this is your most challenging film to date?

It was a really challenging experience for me. I had to put on an extra five kilos for the film. People have lots of expectations since the first Baaghi was a hit and are expecting this one to be bigger and better. We all have worked hard for the film.

What is your favourite moment in the movie?

It’s difficult to point out one as Baaghi 2 is very special to me. However, if I had to choose it would be the moment when I have to jump from the edge of a mountain onto a helicopter. I’m sure when the audiences watch that scene, they’ll feel the same sense of adrenaline I felt while filming it.

How do you prepare for such a physically demanding role?

So I’m on what you call a caveman’s diet. I stay away from all man-made items like rice and grains, and all forms of sugar. It’s mostly fruits, vegetables and animal protein; it’s like going through the grind every day. The focus is to get better than yes­terday. It’s all about being consistent.

My work-out consists of a mix of everything. I do a lot of cardio and weight-training for strength, and for flexibility it’s gymnastics and martial arts. I don’t like to miss out on my workouts.

You enjoy doing the stunts, but do you get scared?

There were a lot of explosions that were happening on the set during the shooting of action sequences. I had to run through the bullets, which was very scary and difficult.

Can you share any memorable behind-the-scenes moments?

Every moment I spent on set while filming the movie was memorable. But I have to say there were moments I received immense support from my team when I was injured.

Every minute spent with (director) Ahmed Khan sir, Sajid sir, (action director) Master Shifu, all my co-stars and the team was memorable and special.

Who are you hoping connects to this film?

Everyone. We’ve made the film with a lot of hard work and love, which I’m sure the audience will feel while watching. Anyone who enjoyed the first Baaghi will like this film, if not more.

You have been signed up to play the lead in the Indian remake of Rambo, but would you agree there are shades of Rambo in this film?

It’d be unfair to compare the films; each has their own story and has their own take when it comes to action. Also I want all the attention and focus to be on Baaghi 2 now. When we get closer to the release of Rambo, it’ll be easier to speak about the details.

Baaghi 2 has a strong support cast; how much does that help you as an actor?

All the actors are incredible and bring out the best in each other. In fact, they bring out the best in me. For me, internal and external expressions are very important. I want to convince the audience watching that I am tough.

As for the choreography, I left it to my director and action consultant Master Shifu. I had a great team to support me and bring something new to the table. I just had to be in character while doing the action and give my best.

What is the masterplan going forward?

The plan is to continue doing good movies and to entertain my fans and audiences.

What would be your dream role?

(Laughs) I have been preparing for this since my childhood. It has been my dream to become an ac­tion hero. That being said, it is definitely challeng­ing to do better and better every time, but this is my passion and this is what I want to do.

Is Baaghi 3 now confirmed? What can we expect from that?

The announcement has just been made and we’re all super-excited for the film. I can’t release any in­formation as yet.

You have an amazing physique, but how much hard work do you have to do in the gym?

I go to the gym in the morning and then in the evening. I also do my martial arts, gymnastics and danc­ing. I’m not into yoga at all. I love sports. If I didn’t become an actor, I would have become a sportsperson.

Can you give us a key fitness tip...

To look good and fresh, it is pertinent to eat healthy. If you are not following a good diet, then the workout you do is worthless. The food you eat should be high in proteins and vitamins for your body. I follow a balanced diet that includes a good mix of dry fruits, eggs, vegetables, sprouts, meat and fish.

I also try and stay away from processed foods as much as possible. Additionally, I believe in the power of detox so I ensure that I consume green tea at least three, four times during the day.

What is the best piece of advice that your legend­ary father Jackie Shroff has given you?

My father always tells me to listen more, speak less and to respect everybody. We follow a quote in­spired by Bruce Lee since we are his fans, which

is ‘an actor should be like water and adapt to the environment’.

What is Sajid Nadiadwala like as a producer?

One word, brilliant! He is my father figure in the industry. When I am under his wing, I feel unstop­pable and ready to take on an army.

What inspires you?

My father. Whenever I look at him, I realise that in all these years he hasn’t changed. He keeps me grounded. He has sheltered me and given me such a happy childhood. I know the background that he came from. My father used to stay in a chawl in the Teen Batti area, and seeing where he has come to inspires me to work hard and do amazing things for my family.

Why should we watch Baaghi 2?

The film is a full-blown entertainer; it has great music, amazing action and a heart-warming love story. It’s a movie audiences have not seen before in a long time and I’m sure they’ll enjoy it.

•  Baaghi 2 is in cinemas now