'I love pampering my girl' Kushal Tandon

We caught up with the Kushal Tandon a.k.a Viraat of 'Ek Hazaron Mein meri behna hai' (Star Plus) on an off day and he was more than ready to field the volley of questions with aplomb.

Kushal, you hail from a political background but you opted for acting as a career. Was it a conscious decision?
Political background is all because of family. I always wanted to get into creative line and acting happened naturally. First step was of course modeling. I started very young at the age of 19 and I was first runner up at Grasims Mr.India by the age of 20.

How was the experience of studying at 'New York Film Academy' in U.S?
I have been away from home since I was in 4th standard as I was a boarder. I went to U.S for my graduation and I loved the experience. I have always lived away but of course I missed my family. We are trying to make up for it now. I meet my family every second month – either they come down or I go to meet them.

You are in a long distance relationship and yet you say you are commitment phobic. Why is that?
For me commitment has a very specific meaning. It is synonymous with marriage. So, what I mean is that I'm in a relationship and I'm enjoying every bit of it, but I'm not prepared to settle down and get married.

Are you a romantic at heart?
I'm romantic, but I'd rather let my actions do the talking. I'm not the kinds to vocally tell my girl friend how I feel. I love pampering my girl and treating her in the best way possible.

Tell us about the worst date you have had so far.
As unbelievable as it sounds, I have not had a bad date, may be because I don't believe in going out randomly with a girl for coffee or dinner. I always make sure I gel with her first and then decide about the next step.

Tell us about one film actress you would love to work with.
(Promptly ) Jessica Alba , hands down! It has to be a romantic comedy.

You are currently playing the character of Viraat on 'Ek Hazaron mein meri behna hai' on Star Plus. Do you relate the character?
Absolutely. We both live by our own rules and have this infectious zest for life. I think I can relate to him on so many levels that I think we would both probably react to situations in similar ways.

How do you spend an off day?
Things are pretty hectic and we barely get three days off in a month. I just laze at home and relax. I'd probably lie on the bed, watch TV and eat junk food.

You are one of the fittest stars in Television Industry today. What is your exercise regime?
When it comes to workout, I'm an extremist. I am capable of ignoring work out for as long as 4 months and when I do decide to hit the gym, I hit back with vengeance, working out six times a week. I'm working out these days to get back to the physique I had during my modeling days.

What is your favourite holiday destination?
I would love to travel to Europe. Try and cover Spain, Italy and Greece. I love the architecture and of course my girl friend is from Europe (Laughs!)

Are you a foodie?
Of course! I don't have any favourite cuisines per say. I love to try out anything be it street chaat or some exotic Mediterranean dish.

Reporter: Medha D.