National Sports Day EXCLUSIVE | Harsh Chhaya On How Sports Was Important Part Of His Childhood: I Would Spend…

National Sports Day 2024 EXCLUSIVE: On the occasion of National Sports Day, celebrated on August 29th, actor Harsh Chhaya, who is part of the recently released series 'Gyaarah Gyaarah', spoke about his fondness for playing sports during his childhood years.

He adds that sports taught him so much more about life, than just keeping him fit. "From around the age of 8 or 9 until about 20, I would spend two hours every evening playing outside, even during exams. Growing up in Delhi meant having open spaces and playgrounds right near the house. Back then, our parents gave us the freedom to be on our own, and we handled all playground disputes ourselves. We mostly played team sports like cricket, football, and hockey. There were fights, but we made up quickly and started again. We got hurt, but we never went home until the game was finished. Whether it was trying to navigate tricky situations or dealing with someone older or bigger than me, all those experiences helped me learn to handle challenges on my own, which has served me well over time," he says.

Ask him who has inspired him to play sports all these years, and he says, "There were a few sports legends like Pele, Maradona, and Zico. Even if I wasn't consciously thinking about them at that age, their personalities certainly inspired me subconsciously to push myself and aspire to do well."

Talking about his favourite sports movie, he added, "The movie Escape to Victory has a classic theme of underdogs overcoming immense odds and finally winning. Plus, it featured Pele and his iconic slow-motion bicycle kick, which left a lasting impression."

Very few people post-30 indulge in sports. The actor says that even if you are not playing a sport, being active is very important. "It's important to keep the body as active as possible, even if you can't play sports regularly. I go for long, brisk walks, visit the gym regularly, walk short distances instead of driving, take the stairs, and avoid lifts and escalators as much as I can," he says.

He adds, "Staying active builds stamina, keeps the heart rate healthy, reduces stress, enhances teamwork skills, and maintains a fit physique. When you look good, you feel good-so it's all positive."