Mrunal Thakur on Food, Fitness, and Puran Poli
Bollywood actress Mrunal Thakur has long been admired not just for her acting prowess but also for her radiant charm, glowing skin, and enviable fitness. While her Instagram is filled with glamorous red carpet looks and behind-the-scenes shots from film sets, there’s a far more relatable side to Mrunal — one that involves cravings for comfort food, an ever-evolving relationship with fitness, and a hilarious yet strategic escape plan when her family prepares her favorite sweet dish, Puran Poli.
A Love-Hate Relationship with Food
It’s emotional, nostalgic, and cultural. “I come from a Maharashtrian family, and our food culture is rich with variety and flavor,” she says. Puran Poli is my absolute weakness.
But here’s the catch — while she loves indulging in traditional delicacies, she is also acutely aware of the demands her career places on her body and appearance. “It’s always a balancing act,” she admits. “I enjoy my food, but I also know when to stop. The problem is, when Puran Poli is on the table, I forget the stopping part.”
That’s why, she confesses with a laugh, she literally locks herself away when Puran Poli is made at home. The smell wafts through the house and it’s impossible to resist. So I lock myself in my room, light a candle to distract my senses, and try to forget it exists.”
Fitness Is a Journey, Not a Destination
“I’m not someone who enjoys hardcore gym sessions every single day,” she says. “There are times when I’m really into strength training and lifting weights, but there are also days when I just want to do yoga or go for a long walk.”
She believes in listening to her body and not punishing it into submission. “Fitness isn’t about torturing yourself to meet an unrealistic goal. It’s about understanding what your body needs today and giving it that.”
Over the years, Mrunal has tried different fitness regimes — from Pilates to HIIT, kickboxing to functional training. But her go-to is often something simple and holistic. “Yoga helps center me. It’s not just a workout; it’s a mental detox,” she says.
Discipline, Not Deprivation
While she indulges in her favorite foods from time to time, Mrunal maintains a disciplined daily routine. Her breakfast typically includes a protein-rich meal — eggs, avocados, or sometimes a smoothie. “I avoid anything too heavy in the morning. It slows me down.”
Lunch is where she keeps it traditional. “I love a good home-cooked dal-chawal or bhindi sabzi with roti. I try to eat clean during workdays.”
Dinners are light and usually wrap up early. “I follow the 7 pm dinner rule. My body digests food better, and I sleep more peacefully when I don’t go to bed on a full stomach.”
But she stresses the importance of flexibility. “If I’m out with friends or attending a dinner party, I don’t punish myself for eating late or indulging in dessert. Life’s meant to be enjoyed.”
Skin and Soul: Wellness Beyond the Body
For Mrunal, wellness extends far beyond diet and workouts. Her glowing skin is a result of consistent hydration, proper sleep, and minimalist skincare. “People think I use a dozen products, but honestly, it’s sunscreen, a gentle cleanser, and a good moisturizer.”
She’s a big believer in mental health and self-care. “There’s no point looking good if you’re mentally exhausted or emotionally drained. I meditate when I can. I journal when I feel overwhelmed. And yes, sometimes I just binge-watch reality shows and do absolutely nothing.”
A Word to Her Fans
Asked what advice she’d give to fans trying to balance health, indulgence, and self-love, Mrunal offers something both real and refreshing: “Don’t compare your journey to someone else’s. And that’s okay. Find what makes you feel strong, happy, and energized.”
She adds, “It’s okay to eat that Puran Poli. Just maybe don’t eat five in one go — or do, if you’re ready to face the consequences,” she says with a wink.
Ultimately, Mrunal Thakur’s relationship with food, fitness, and wellness is not built on perfection but on patience, awareness, and a healthy dose of humor. Whether she’s on-screen dazzling audiences or at home battling her love for sweet indulgences, she reminds us that balance, not obsession, is the key to sustainable wellness.