At 60, Puneet Issar Works Out Like A Maniac. This Is His Story

BR Chopra’s Mahabharata that began in 1988 on Indian television brought alive many significant and complex characters in Indian mythology. Those perfected portrayals continue to intrigue us on many levels till date. Duryodhana was one such stellar role played by actor Puneet Issar. His fierce disapproving eyes, his intimidating demeanor, his obsession with power has set a high benchmark that many actors haven’t been able to overshadow in the many versions of the epic ancient tale.

Some of his other works include- Ram Jaane (1995) and Border (1997).

Puneet Issar turned 60 this September, but his current schedule would give 25-year-olds a run for their money. The rigorous workout routine that he puts himself through daily is to get into shape to play the iconic role once again that made him a household name in India, Duryodhana.

Issar as Duryodhana in his 2018 theatre production Mahbharat.
“I have always had a heavy built and have been into all sorts of physical activities like weight training and martial arts (he is an eigth-degree black belt). When I was doing the play Raavan (2015-2018), I needed to have a certain build, since he is larger than life and his portrayal demands a lot. So, I started doing heavy weights which increased my girth and size. Then in 2018, I started writing another play, depicting the Mahabharata from Duryodhana’s perspective. I realised I would have to get in shape like I was 30 years ago when I played Duryodhana in the Mahabharata TV series (1988-1990). Back then, I was between 98-104 kgs, with no fat. For this present role, I would need to drastically cut down on my weight, which fluctuates between 118-122 kgs,” says Issar.
Issar wakes up every day at 7 am and has a cup of black coffee with ceramic powder and a spoon of coconut oil. He then goes for an 8 km run during which he rehearses the lines of the Mahabharata play. For breakfast, he has a five-egg omelet- comprising two egg whites and three full eggs with a bit of spinach and chicken.

“Around 12 pm, I hit the gym, and work out for 2.5 hours (6 days a week). My trainer is this young girl who literally kills me. Post the gym I have lunch which could be palak, broccoli or chicken. I am on a ketos diet so I avoid sugar, dairy products, wheat, grain or pulses. Post that, I head for the rehearsals,” says Issar.

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