Bengaluru wants demo after famous TV actor credits Mumbai traffic jams for his impressive physique and fitness
Shabbir Ahluwalia
, the key to fitness lies in navigating the chaos of Mumbai traffic on two wheels. During a light-hearted conversation on Bharti Singh and Haarsh Limbachiyaa's YouTube podcast, the actor opened up about how his long-standing habit of
cycling to work
, initially adopted as a practical solution, has now evolved into an integral part of his life.
Shabbir shared that nearly 10 to 12 years ago, he began cycling once or twice a week—not with fitness in mind, but as a workaround to Mumbai's painfully slow commute. The set for his television show back then was around 9 kilometres away from his residence. However, what should have been a short drive would end up taking him close to an hour and a half by car. Frustrated, he took to cycling, which allowed him to cover the distance in just 15–20 minutes. Eventually, the distance increased, and he now comfortably pedals over 20 to 25 kilometres each way, twice a week.
A Ride that Transforms
Currently portraying the passionate Yug Sinha in
Ufff… Yeh Love Hai Mushkil
, Shabbir has turned his cycling routine into much more than just a commute. What started as a time-saving trick has become a grounding ritual that aligns him with his demanding on-screen role. The morning ride prepares both his body and mind, offering a meditative space to shift gears—from his real-life responsibilities to the emotionally intense world of his character.
In an interview with
IANS
, Shabbir described this practice as a transition that clears his head and focuses his energy. He believes the act of pedaling through the early hours gives him clarity and composure, essential traits for the complex scenes he performs during long shooting schedules. According to the actor, the calm and rhythm he finds on the road help him tune into Yug's emotionally layered personality, allowing for a seamless transformation from self to character.
Positivity on Set
This cycling habit has also caught the attention of his crew members. He says a cycling session helps him be energetic and upbeat and ready to deal with high-voltage drama on a TV series set. The energy he brings after his ride sets an upbeat tone for the entire team.
He explained that this discipline not only boosts physical stamina but also acts as a mental reset. The continuity of the routine helps him stay grounded while channeling the emotional intensity of his role. Cycling has become a form of therapy, a ritual that energizes his spirit and adds authenticity to his performance, he told
IANS
.
Journey from TV Heartthrob to Action Winner
Shabbir Ahluwalia has had a remarkable journey in the Indian television and entertainment industry. Best known for playing Abhishek Prem Mehra in the long-running series Kumkum Bhagya, he has won accolades for his acting talent and screen presence. Beyond acting, he also took home the title in Season 3 of Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi. His hosting credits include shows like Nach Baliye, Guinness World Records—Ab India Todega, and Dancing Queen.
He rose to prominence with pivotal roles in popular serials such as Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kya Hadsaa Kya Haqeeqat, Kahi To Milenge, Kasamh Se, Kkavyanjali, Kasautii Zindagii Kay, Kayamath, and Laagi Tujhse Lagan. On the big screen, he made his Bollywood debut in Shootout at Lokhandwala, followed by Mission Istanbul.
Family and Social Media Fame
Shabbir tied the knot with actress Kanchi Kaul in 2011. They became parents to their first son in 2014 and welcomed their second child two years later. His unique
fitness journey
recently went viral on Facebook, sparking admiration and humorous responses. One Bengaluru user quipped that if cycling in Mumbai gets you a fit body, then pedaling in Bengaluru would leave you as ripped as the Hulk. Another shared admiration for a man who cycles 25 kilometres each way to work daily in Bangalore, praising his remarkable fitness level.
Shabbir's story stands as a reminder that fitness doesn't always require gyms or gadgets—sometimes, it just takes a bicycle and a bit of determination to turn daily challenges into lifelong habits.
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