Like her Instagram bio states, Shriya Saran swears by “living each day to its fullest.” At 42, the actor has been focused on prioritising her well-being—whether it’s dance, travel, or simply unwinding with a good book. “Even on my busiest days, I make sure to pause and enjoy small moments—sipping chai in the evening or watching the sunset. Balancing my professional and personal life is something I truly believe in,” shared Saran, who has a packed schedule with Suriya 44, Sandakkari, Nadada, and Drishyam 3.
By her own admission, she is always looking for “new ways to grow”—in films and other creative pursuits. “I feel incredibly grateful. My journey had its ups and downs, but every experience shaped me. I’ve learned, grown, and discovered so much about myself along the way. While I’m happy with how far I’ve come, I also believe there’s always more to explore and achieve. I’m also passionate about wellness and conscious living, and I’d love to do something meaningful in that area too,” said Saran.
In an exclusive, freewheeling chat with indianexpress.com, Saran opened up about being able to spend quality time with family despite a hectic schedule, motherhood, and some conscious, healthy choices she continues to make.
Read edited excerpts below:
Q. What’s keeping you busy these days?
Shriya Saran: Right now, my schedule is a mix of film shoots, fitness routines, and spending quality time with my family. Staying active is essential for me, and I make it a point to focus on both physical and mental health.
Q. How do you maintain a balanced, healthy diet despite your hectic work schedule?
Shriya Saran: I believe in keeping my body energised throughout the day with wholesome, natural, and nutrient-rich foods––plenty of fresh, seasonal fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, almonds, and healthy fats. I avoid processed foods and focus on mindful eating.
I love adding California almonds––which provides 15 essential nutrients, including vitamin E for healthy skin, magnesium for muscle function, and protein for sustained energy––to my morning smoothie, and I also sprinkle them over salads, or simply enjoy them raw.
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Hydration is just as important, so I make sure to drink plenty of water and herbal teas.
Q. How do you manage food cravings while maintaining a healthy diet?
Shriya Saran: I do get cravings, especially in the middle of a hectic day. I love chaat, but I try to make healthier versions at home. Instead of fried snacks, I opt for roasted almonds with a sprinkle of chaat masala—it’s crunchy, flavourful, and packed with nutrients. I also keep fresh fruits, yoghurt, and homemade almond-based energy bars handy to avoid mindless snacking.
Q. What does your workout routine look like?
Shriya Saran: Fitness is a big part of my life, and I like to keep my routine dynamic. I do a mix of yoga, Pilates, strength training, and Kathak, which helps with agility and flexibility. I also love outdoor activities like swimming and hiking whenever I get the chance.
For an energy boost, I have bananas or a smoothie before workouts. Post-workout, I focus on recovery—stretching, staying hydrated, and eating a protein-rich meal with foods like eggs, lentils, and grilled fish. Overall, I believe in balance—staying active, eating well, and making time to rest and recharge.
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Q. What does a perfect day in your life look like?
Shriya Saran: A perfect day starts with meditation, a good breakfast, and some form of movement, whether it’s yoga or dance. If I’m shooting, my schedule revolves around that, but I always make time for things that bring me joy, like reading, spending time with my daughter, or catching up with friends.
Q. You have multiple passions—from acting to Kathak to scuba diving. Which one brings you the most joy?
Shriya Saran: Each passion fulfills a different part of me. Acting allows me to step into different lives and tell stories, dancing gives me discipline and freedom of expression, and scuba diving connects me with nature in the most magical way. If I could pick up a new skill, it would be playing a musical instrument — maybe the piano. I think it would be an amazing creative outlet.
Q. What’s your take on intermittent fasting?
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Shriya Saran: I don’t follow intermittent fasting strictly, but I believe in mindful eating and giving my body the time it needs to digest properly. Instead of following rigid diets, I focus on listening to my body. Some days, I naturally eat within a smaller window, while on others, I spread out my meals. For me, balance is key, ensuring I get all the essential nutrients without restricting myself.
Q. With such a demanding career, how do you take care of your skin and hair?
Shriya Saran: Skincare for me is all about hydration, nourishment, and sun protection. I follow a simple routine which includes cleansing, moisturising, and applying sunscreen. But I also believe in protecting my skin from the inside out. For my hair, I rely on oil massages, a nutrient-rich diet, and deep conditioning to maintain strength and shine. I avoid excessive heat styling and stay hydrated with plenty of water and fresh juices to keep my skin and hair healthy from within.
Q. What’s your favourite part about being a mother?
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Shriya Saran: Motherhood has changed me in so many ways. It has taught me to be more patient and present. My favourite part of being a mother is the small, everyday moments—holding my daughter’s hand, hearing her laugh, reading bedtime stories, or just watching her grow and learn. These little things make my heart full. Motherhood is a journey of love and learning, and it’s the most beautiful experience of my life.
Q. You’ve kept your personal life quite private. Is that a conscious choice?
Shriya Saran: Yes, I believe some aspects of life should be kept away from the public eye. I cherish my personal relationships and keeping them private allows me to enjoy them without distractions.
Q. What’s the secret to a fulfilling marriage with your husband Andrei Koscheev?
Shriya Saran: Time, effort, and communication. Every relationship requires nurturing, no matter how long you’ve been together. Spending quality time, making small thoughtful gestures, and supporting each other’s dreams make all the difference.
Q. What’s a dish you love cooking?
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Shriya Saran: I love cooking! It relaxes me and brings joy, especially when making healthy meals. My favourites include quinoa salads, lentil soups, and traditional homemade dishes that bring back childhood memories. Cooking for my family is special — it’s my way of showing love while ensuring they eat balanced, nutritious meals.
Q. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
Shriya Saran: I’d like to be more patient with myself. I tend to push myself a lot, always aiming for more. But I’m learning to slow down, appreciate my journey, and trust that things will unfold as they’re meant to.
Q. Do you have any fears you’d like to overcome?
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Shriya Saran: I have a slight fear of heights. Adventure sports like skydiving or bungee jumping make me nervous, but I’d love to try them one day. I believe that facing fears makes us stronger, so maybe I’ll challenge myself soon.
Q. Do you believe in manifestation and does it play a role in achieving success?
Shriya Saran: I believe in setting clear goals and working towards them with dedication. But I also think success comes from hard work, persistence, and being open to new opportunities. Dreaming big is important, but so is taking action to make those dreams a reality.