After playing Aslam in Rang De Basanti, Kunal Kapoor is now on the lookout for meatier parts.

The actor keeps himself busy with his two pet passions — the Art of Living, and Goju-Ryu karate — a form of martial arts that he practices religiously, with the help of a trainer, thrice a week. Kunal talks about his fascination for the alternative, finding mental focus and keeping calm…

Were you always inclined toward spirituality?
Yes. I find alternative things very fascinating. I love reading books on philosophy and spirituality. I have been learning martial arts for a while now. The style I’m learning, is Goju-Ryu karate. I learn from my teacher, Adil, who comes home to teach me for an hour and 15 minutes, thrice a week.

Prior to this, I was learning Tai Chi. I also go to the gym regularly, but focus more on freehand exercises, than on weights. As a form, Tai Chi is more meditative. I have a childlike fantasy to be a Shaolin monk; I find them really fascinating.

What about the Art of Living?
I got into the Art of Living course about 10 years ago, but couldn’t practice regularly. I lost touch as I was dabbling in a lot of other things.

I was introduced to it by a relative of mine, Sangeeta Jani. It was only in the last couple of years that I have taken it up again, and have been doing it regularly, since.

Tell us more about it.
Art of Living centres around a really powerful breathing technique, called the Sudarshan kriya. It has helped me tremendously, physically and mentally. It’s given me a sense of calm and focus. Also, in today’s hyper world, you tend to get disconnected from yourself. Read the rest of this entry »