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The winner stands alone

Sonipat lad, Kashish Thakur Pundir is the freshly minted reality TV star. MTV Roadies Xtreme 15’s winner labels the whole journey as a roller coaster ride, with as many highs, as lows. And, it sure was one heck of a change...

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Mona

Sonipat lad, Kashish Thakur Pundir is the freshly minted reality TV star. MTV Roadies Xtreme 15’s winner labels the whole journey as a roller coaster ride, with as many highs, as lows. And, it sure was one heck of a change...

Speaking right after the win, he obviously cannot get over the charisma and charms of Rannvijay Singh, Neha Dhupia and Prince Narula and how they propelled him towards the podium finish. Minutes later, he confesses, how tough it was to go a 360 degree change. A Jiu-Jitsu MMA/Crossfit trainer, twice a day workout with proper diet has been a lifestyle not negotiable. But that went for a toss for this 30-day run. “We would shoot 20 hours a day and boy that was tough. Add to it I was eating dal chawal on daily basis, my system was doing somersaults.”

A jack of all trades, Kashish levels his win to keeping calm and cool in trying situations. “Jiu-jitsu is a Brazilian martial art form that puts emphasis on technique than strength. I was able to leverage that experience in not only winning tasks, but also playing mind games to keep an upper hand in competition.” He is also happy, “Lakhs of contestants give Roadies auditions, my parents were worried if I would be able to make it. Since I am the first one from the family who showed up on TV, they are super proud.” 

The toughest part for him was when friends turned foes. “It was so tough to keep the gang together. Camaraderie is important but then it’s a fight and only one goes to the top. When my friends turned their back on me I found it hard to take.” But all that is water under the bridge now, Kashish is looking forward to moving to Mumbai and turn a new inning.

Playing favourites

I am a huge fan of Rannvijay sir. The way he has grown from Roadies 1 to 15. Prince sir is another inspiration. I eventually moved to Neha ma’ams gang and was pleasantly surprised how motivating she is. Amongst all roadies, I closely relate to season 8’s Suchit Vikram Singh. His calm demeanour, the way he gave respect to judges is what’s been my way too.

Words of advice

Be what you are when you show up at reality shows. They already have a Rannvijay and a Prince, they are looking for uniqueness and if you can offer that you have a chance. Also, weigh each of your action or what you say carefully. Don’t just blabber, have justification to each move you make. 

Stay true to fitness

Staying fit is a constant game. Be religious in your diet. I haven’t had a chappati for last year and half. Measure what you eat, train religiously to keep up in top form.

It’s real 

Before being a part of a reality show, I also thought they were scripted. But put under intense conditions, fierce competition, away from comfort zone, there are outbursts which are pretty real.

mona@tribunemail.com

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