Vicky Kaushal’s Intense Transformation for Chhaava: Gains 25 Kilos for Role

Mumbai: Vicky Kaushal has always been known for his dedication to his roles, but his latest transformation for the film “Chhaava” has taken his commitment to the next level. In the upcoming historical drama, he portrays Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. To bring authenticity to his character, Kaushal underwent intense training and gained 25 kilos.

 At the trailer launch of the film, Kaushal shared, “The last action film I did was *Uri*. Since then, I have been yearning for the opportunity to do action again. I didn’t know they would put me on a horse and have me wield a sword. But everything was new. I didn’t know how to ride a horse, so I trained for it, along with sword fighting and spear combat — all of this involved proper training for 6-7 months. I gained weight, going from 80 kilos to 105 kilos.

Beyond the physical challenges, Kaushal emphasized the emotional and cultural depth of the role, stating, “More than living that life, understanding the culture, history, and values was the biggest takeaway from the film, and that’s something I will never forget.”

Mindful Weight Gain: Expert Insights

Extreme physical transformations like Kaushal’s require careful planning and supervision. While rapid weight gain is often necessary for actors and athletes, fitness experts advise a structured approach to avoid health risks. Dr. Swati Gaikwad, a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist at Motherhood Hospital, Pune, explains that excessive weight gain can lead to insulin resistance if not monitored properly. “A proactive lifestyle that includes balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management is key to maintaining overall well-being while gaining weight,” she advises.

Effective Strategies for Healthy Weight Gain:

Nutritional Adjustments

– Avoid processed foods that are high in sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats.

– Focus on whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates.

– Include calorie-dense foods like avocados, nuts, and nut butter.

Workout Regimen

Fitness trainer Varun Rattan suggests a structured workout plan alongside a high-calorie diet:

– Train 5-6 days per week, targeting all major muscle groups.

– Perform compound movements such as squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and running.

– Combine heavy lifting (3-5 reps) with hypertrophy work (8-12 reps) for optimal muscle gain.

– Use techniques like supersets, drop sets, and progressive overload to maximize growth.

Meal Plan for Weight Gain

– Consume 5-6 meals daily, totaling 4,000-6,000 calories.

– Prioritize lean proteins (chicken, fish, eggs), complex carbs (brown rice, sweet potatoes), and healthy fats.

– Include protein shakes and mass gainers between meals.

– Opt for liquid calories, such as smoothies with peanut butter or almond butter, for easier digestion.

 Supplements and Recovery

– Use whey and casein protein for muscle recovery.

– Consider creatine monohydrate for strength and muscle volume.

– Omega-3 and ashwagandha can help with muscle preservation and recovery.

– Pre-workout supplements can enhance energy and focus.

– Aim for 8-9 hours of sleep for optimal recovery.

Final Takeaway

While dramatic physical transformations are part of an actor’s profession, experts recommend professional supervision to ensure health and safety. Vicky Kaushal’s commitment to “Chhaava” highlights the discipline and dedication required to bring historical characters to life on screen.