Naga Chaitanya on dealing with the perils of social media: ‘It is important to not get too immersed’

Naga Chaitanya, who made his Bollywood debut with the Aamir Khan starrer Laal Singh Chaddha, is a well-known name in the Telugu film industry. Son of actor Nagarjuna, he has also appeared in films like Premam, 100% Love, and Ye Maaya Chesave. With his upcoming movie, Thandel, set for release later this year, we caught up with Naga Chaitanya on the sidelines of the recently concluded Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI, where he told us about his journey so far, the ups and downs of being an actor, his ultimate cheat meal and his idea of fashion.

Q. After almost 15 years in the industry, how would you describe your journey?

Naga Chaitanya: It has been very satisfying but there’s still a lot more to do. A lot of learning has happened in these 15 years. So, I just can’t wait to keep evolving and getting better. But if I have to put it in a word, I would say, very satisfying.

Q. What is the most challenging and exciting thing about being an actor?

Naga Chaitanya: The most fun and exciting thing, I would say, is that I get to play a different role every six months. And the most challenging thing is that we have to keep learning, and always have to be on top of our game because there is so much competition around us. But in a way, this competition is what drives me to keep doing better.

 

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Q. Your profession requires you to look a certain way. As such, what goes behind maintaining that physique — in terms of fitness and diet?

Naga Chaitanya: While it’s part of the job, I enjoy physical fitness a lot — it drives me mentally and keeps me happy. So of course, sticking to a clean diet during the week, indulging in an hour (or so) of physical activity every day, and giving myself adequate rest — which is one of the most important things. I like to give a lot of importance to rest. So, this wholesome approach, sort of, keeps me well and going forward.

Q. Talking about diet, what is the one thing you truly love indulging in? Is that what cheat meals usually comprise?

Naga Chaitanya: On cheat days I love indulging in an ice cream, especially a Magnum because it is truly decadent and indulgent. Hence Magnum is my go-to indulgence on my cheat meal days.

Q. How important is social media for you? How do you deal with the perils of the platform?

Naga Chaitanya: While it’s very important, it is equally essential to stay away from it whenever needed. As such, it is important to find the right balance. Of course, social media is a huge power; it is a great tool where you can influence a large number of people with just a small text or a picture. But then, it is also important to not get too immersed in it — to know what to absorb and what to leave behind.

 

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Q. What does fashion mean to you? How would you define your sense of style?

Naga Chaitanya: Just be comfortable with what you are wearing. You know, when you wear those clothes and look at yourself in the mirror and feel confident about yourself — that’s my fashion formula.

Q. Can we expect to see you in more Bollywood projects in 2024?

Naga Chaitanya: Right now, I am doing a Telegu film called Thandel which will be released around the end of this year. Bollywood films in 2024…can’t say much but you got to keep watching out!

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