One of television’s most distinguished actors Ronit Roy is currently coping with the chores at home rather than regaling audiences with his performance.
“Isn’t that what everyone is doing?” wonders Ronit, best known for his powerful performances in Adaalat and Yeh Rishte Hain Pyar Ke. “We locked our house down and sent the drivers and all the house-help away on 12 March. I was supposed to travel to the US in March. But I cancelled way ahead in February because I suspected this pandemic would grow, going by the numbers in Iran and Italy. On 12 March my daughter had a school test after which we went into quarantine. So it’s been for over two months.”
Ronit is not missing a social life, “You know me. I’m a recluse by nature and home bird by choice. The lockdown doesn’t make a difference to me as long as I’ve my family with me. But I think it’s tougher for my wife and children. They’d like to step out for fresh air. But can only do so once every 12-13 days to buy essentials.”
Ronit maintains a rigid self-discipline at home during this prolonged quarantine. “I am not eating more than I normally do. But I must confess I enjoy my wife’s cooking since she is doing all the cooking. But it’s normal food, so no binging. Except maybe a bit of ice cream now and then and a glass of wine once a week, And I wake up at my usual time between 6.30-7 am. I am not doing anything now that I wouldn’t do under normal circumstances. Just that I don’t go to the gym and I work out at home.”
Ronit is working from home. “The promotions for my new series Kehne Ko Humsafar Hain are starting. So I’d be doing interviews on the phone and video conference. I run a company with 120 employees. Though work is suspended their families need to stay afloat. I am looking into whatever their issues, monetary or otherwise maybe.”
Ronit does look at the news on Twitter and the internet, but otherwise keeps busy during the day with various household chores. “I start the day by waking up my children for their online classes. Then I sit with my cup of coffee and plan the day. I work out then I practice on my saxophone have lunch, rest for a while and then all my office work needs to take taken care. In the evening I watch an hour or so of whatever show I want.”
Introspection is part of Ronit’s nature. “I’ve been on this introspective journey for more than a decade. It’s a natural part of me. I am in touch with myself. I know who I am I know my responsibilities.I know where I go wrong…I think most people know it instinctively but ignore it. This is the time to sort out your priorities. The rat-race has slowed down, and cheers to new
beginnings.”
Advice for fans? “By now everyone knows what to do. Most of us will catch the virus, some of us wouldn’t even know it. This pandemic affects us physically, emotionally. I suggest an hour and a half of exercise even if you have limited space at home. Mentally we have to be strong. There are a lot of problems in everyone’s life. This is a storm. But everyone is on his own boat. Be calm with the family at home. Please sort out your domestic issues with gentle dialogue. Beyond that we know nothing about the future. Except that all of us are in this together and we will overcome this.”
About the financial crisis being faced by the Indian television industry Ronit says, “Too grave and intense matter for me to address. Like I said I have a 120 employees who I’m taking care of. I’m sure the people who owe this money to the actors understand the situation and should release the money to them. But it’s like that all over. My producer refused to pay my dues and till lockdown opens. Luckily, my kitchen is afloat.”
