Shilpa Shetty: Fit and Fab at 40

Shilpa Shetty Kundra opens up about a new decade of her life, turning her dreams into thriving businesses, writing her book The Great Indian Diet and dealing with the IPL ban.

- Sandipan Dalal, Photographs By Abhay Singh

Life is full of surprises and that’s just the way Shilpa Shetty Kundra likes it. Though the actor-turned-entrepreneur didn’t map everything out, her major milestones have unfolded like a fairytale: winning Celebrity Big Brother in the UK in 2007, marrying the love of her life, Raj Kundra, in 2009, becoming the co-owner of an IPL cricket team the same year, and having her son Viaan in 2012. She is currently taking delight in her son’s fi rst sentences and her book, The Great Indian Diet, co-authored with her son’s nutritionist, Luke Coutinho. Edited excerpts from the interview:

In June this year, you entered a new decade of your life, in what looks like the best shape you’ve ever been. How do you feel about turning 40?

More than looking good, the emphasis has always been on being healthy. And I’m glad I’m healthy today despite my erratic schedule that involves work-related travelling, meetings, raising our son (Viaan) and dinner dates with my husband (Raj Kundra). I feel like the best is yet to come; I want to look my best at 50.

What’s your current workout and diet routine like?

Contrary to popular belief, I’m a big foodie. I just eat differently from most people. If cheesecake is in the fridge, my husband might have four pieces, and I eat only a smidgen. I practise yoga too, but the trick is knowing what, when and how much to eat. I start my day by alkalising my body with warm water and lemon. I eat a wholesome breakfast. Lunch is my biggest meal. And I eat dinner with Viaan by 8 pm.

You’re a mum, entrepreneur and fitness enthusiast. Which one of these roles do you enjoy the most today?