Mid-day.com recently had the opportunity to conduct an exclusive interview with Bollywood megastar Sanjay Dutt. The candid conversation shed light on Dutt’s friendships within the industry as well as his enthusiasm for food, providing a rare glimpse into the personal life of this veteran actor.
Sanjay Dutt, renowned for his powerful on-screen performances and an illustrious career spanning several decades, is equally celebrated for his strong bonds with fellow actors. Sharing the screen with some of the biggest names in Bollywood, Dutt has cultivated a close-knit circle of friends who double as his favorite lunch and dinner companions. When asked about his top picks for a meal date, Dutt did not hesitate to name Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn, Suniel Shetty, and Jackie Shroff.
Dutt’s camaraderie with Salman Khan dates back to their first film together, ‘Saajan,’ released in 1991. The duo has since appeared together in popular films such as ‘Yeh Hai Jalwa,’ ‘Chal Mere Bhai,’ ‘Ready,’ and ‘Son Of Sardar.’ Their enduring friendship goes beyond professional collaboration, extending into a bond built over years of shared experiences.
Similarly, Dutt’s friendship with Suniel Shetty has been solidified through their work in multiple films including ‘Kaante,’ ‘LOC Kargil,’ ‘Rudraksh,’ ‘Rakht,’ ‘Tango Charlie,’ and ‘Dus.’ Shetty and Dutt’s camaraderie is often reflected in their impeccable on-screen chemistry, making them one of the most iconic duos in Bollywood.
Ajay Devgn, another significant figure in Dutt’s social circle, has also shared the screen with him in several films. Their impressive filmography includes titles such as ‘Hum Kisise Kum Nahin,’ ‘Bhuj: The Pride of India,’ and ‘Raju Chacha.’ Devgn’s cool demeanor and straightforward attitude seem to complement Dutt’s personality, forging a strong professional and personal camaraderie.
Jackie Shroff, fondly known as “Jaggu Dada,” also makes the cut among Dutt’s cherished friends. Their partnership brought to life unforgettable movies like ‘Khalnayak’ and ‘Mission Kashmir.’ Shroff’s magnetic screen presence combined with Dutt’s compelling performances have given Bollywood some of its most memorable moments.
Beyond his star-studded friendships, Sanjay Dutt is known for his love of food. Celebrating a year of his brand, Glenwalk, Dutt revealed his evolution as a foodie.
. Growing up, his meals were simple, akin to the average Indian diet, consisting of staples like dal, rice, roti, sabzi, and occasionally chicken. However, as his career progressed, so did his palate.
Despite his diagnosis of stage 4 lung cancer, Dutt demonstrated inspiring resilience and an unwavering spirit. He credits his strong mindset for his successful recovery, stating, “You’ve got to be absolutely mentally strong. You’ve got to break all the boundaries and fight it. I think anything is achievable when you’re strong-minded.” His journey through this personal health battle has been an inspiring chapter for many of his fans.
As a fitness enthusiast, Dutt maintains a rigorous workout regimen and often shares updates on social media to motivate his fans. However, he isn’t shy about indulging in his favorite cheat meals like burgers and pizzas. Maintaining a balance, he prefers healthier options when engrossed in demanding filming schedules, often opting for grilled fish and chicken to fuel his exhaustive action sequences.
Concluding the conversation on a homely note, Dutt spoke about his love for cooking. A proud father and husband, he takes pleasure in cooking Nalli Nahari for his family. His passion for this traditional dish not only reflects his culinary skills but also his deep connection to his roots. If given a choice to eat only one dish for the rest of his life, Dutt confidently chose fish, showcasing his love for simple yet nutritious food.
This exclusive chat provided a deeper understanding of Sanjay Dutt beyond his on-screen persona. His friendships with Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn, Suniel Shetty, and Jackie Shroff highlight the genuine relationships he has built in the often competitive realm of Bollywood. Furthermore, his journey as a resilient cancer survivor and a true foodie adds further dimensions to his multifaceted personality. Indeed, Sanjay Dutt is not just a superstar on the silver screen but also a culinary enthusiast with an inspiring life story.
