shot-button
Maharashtra Elections 2024 Maharashtra Elections 2024
Home > Entertainment News > Bollywood News > Article > Shamshera Ranbir Kapoor becomes desi Robin Hood one rep at a time

'Shamshera': Ranbir Kapoor becomes desi Robin Hood, one rep at a time

Updated on: 11 July,2022 07:03 AM IST  |  Mumbai
Mohar Basu | mohar.basu@mid-day.com

Shamshera director and trainer decode Ranbir’s prep as actor built athletic frame, six-pack abs to portray noble dacoit taking on British Raj

'Shamshera': Ranbir Kapoor becomes desi Robin Hood, one rep at a time

A still from the film

Distinct as his roles may have been, Ranbir Kapoor has never played a larger-than-life character so far. Shamshera is an exception in that regard. Director Karan Malhotra’s period drama sees him as a spirited dacoit, who loots the British Raj’s allies, thus protesting against slavery. In keeping with the character, Kapoor had to adopt a ripped physique for the movie. Eight weeks before the project rolled in late 2019, trainer Kunal Gir began working with the actor to help him attain the goal. “The target was to make RK look athletic, not too bulky as his character was like Robin Hood. We had to retain the character’s rustic and raw appeal,” says Gir, who put Kapoor on a five-meal plan. “It was a high-protein, low-carb diet, and he was allowed a cheat meal only once a week.” 


Also Read: Vaani Kapoor reveals her horse-riding experience in 'Shamshera'


Karan MalhotraKaran Malhotra


The actor’s fitness regime was modified to focus on his core strength, before building his six-pack abs. “We trained five days a week, each session was an hour-long, followed by a five-minute high-intensity cardio session called ‘truck’. It involved the treadmill being turned off, while RK would hold the handles of the machine and drive the belt with his legs.” Though the pandemic briefly put the brakes on the project, the actor resumed the regimen as soon as filming recommenced.   

Also Read: Karan Malhotra: Never imagined ‘Teri Maa Ka Mukut’ would become such a craze

In the July 22 release, Kapoor’s character is pitted against the merciless Shuddh Singh, essayed by Sanjay Dutt. The director notes that the leading man, who plays a double role, had to build a powerful frame to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Dutt. “Ranbir has worked hard for the roles of Shamshera and Balli. The idea came from the fact that I wanted the audiences to feel his internal strength every time they saw him on screen. So, I [nudged] Ranbir towards building a body that added more strength to his characters. The intention was never for his physique to be a distraction, but to be an asset to his characters,” he says. 

Also Read: Alia Bhatt flaunts her baby bump at Mumbai airport; hugs Ranbir Kapoor in car

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

Register for FREE
to continue reading !

This is not a paywall.
However, your registration helps us understand your preferences better and enables us to provide insightful and credible journalism for all our readers.

Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK