Overjoyed Natasha spills her heart out

Friday, September 07, 2007

In our society obsessed with external beauty, women, more than men, are always expected to have the ideal looks. Natasha Grover, the female contestant who came second in "Biggest Loser Jeetega" spills her heart out about what difference the show has made to her life.

Now that the "Biggest Loser" contest is over, how does it feel?
It feels lighter (laughs). It feels amazing, I had never thought that I will get so far, nor had I expected to lose so much of weight. I gave Sandeep good competition. The margin between us in the end was a mere 2 per cent. He was a tough contender and he inspired me a lot. I have learnt a lot in this span of four months. I have gone through a healthy route of losing weight and I feel every one should take some time out to make their lives better and simpler.

What made you join this show?
I was turning 27. I had thought of taking a break for a few months and pampering myself. I was all set to go to the Jindal health farm in Bangalore. Looking beautiful was always on my mind because even though I had everything there was one thing that was missing in my life -- I craved for a boyfriend. All my friends were into relationships. Everyone loved me, but no one actually wanted to go out with me. And amidst all this one day one of my friends messaged me about this "Biggest Loser" contest and I got excited about it. I thought it was a cool idea. My friends filled up the forms for me, they negotiated with the channel and after clearing the interview and the medical tests I was on.

Did you ever feel in between that you wanted to quit the show?
No, I was way too determined. I wanted to make it to the top three. I wanted to be in the game, which was my motivation.

What kept you going?
Competition kept me ticking. I always had a goal. The fear of losing made me work harder. You have to be a fighter. If you are not in the game of losing weight, how will you get into shape? I kept saying these lines to myself.

Tell us something about the fitness regime that you followed?
We used to work out 2-3 times a day. For all these days, I have just seen gym machines. Now that I have attained the desired shape I just need to maintain it. I have joined aerobic classes, it is a really nice way to tone your muscles and is also good for health. I do spinning as it burns a lot of fat and is very good for the lower body. I do keep a check on my diet, I eat in small portions. When we were in the contest, I used to eat every two hours but in small quantities. That helped push up my metabolism rate. It is very important to have a high metabolism rate.

Out of all the contestants who do you think was the most dedicated?
Everyone was dedicated, especially Sandeep and Ajay. They emerged as the heroes. They not only proved themselves but were a source of inspiration for others in the contest, including me. We three are good friends now, we work out together.

Besides weight loss, what else have you gained from the show?
I have been a winner, and will retain that fighting spirit for life. My whole life has changed, offers from Bollywood sound like a fairytale, but it's a truth. Suniel Shetty has signed us and will be making a movie with us. Seemanto Roy of Sahara has also promised to make a movie with us. Lots of things are coming my way. So apart from gaining a new rhythm in life, I have gained a new look for both my body and soul.

You took up this challenge to prove to somebody or did you want to prove to yourself?
I did it for myself. I had to prove myself and when the show offer came my way, I just couldn't stop signing up.

You have bagged a film contract along with a cash prize. There is no doubt about your potential. But just how much interested are you in acting?
I always had a desire to act but was shy to admit it. Sandeep, however, was open about it from Day One. I wanted to prove myself first and then talk about it. I have done English theatre, and have also acted when I was in Mithibai college. I have never worked towards acting, so now I have to prepare myself.

What's next for you?
As of now, I want to rest for a few days and relish all that I have missed these four months, including my favourite dishes. I want to be prepared for acting so I will be taking acting classes and also dance classes, as the latter is a very effective way of staying in shape.

You said you wanted to have a boyfriend. Now that you have achieved the desired looks, are you planning to get someone?
Huh! Frankly speaking, my perspective towards life has changed, now I want to stay away from all this. I want to focus on my career and not a guy. Love will happen on its own when it has to. I have got unexpected things so far, and I am sure love will also be unexpected.

There are a lot of people who are obese and lack confidence. What message would you like to give them?
You need to believe in yourself that you can do it. If you think you can shed that extra flesh, you will surely succeed. If I can do it so why cannot you. Just fix a goal for yourself and believe in yourself.