Actress Aditi Sharma embarked on a new adventure with her entry into the world of Rohit Shetty’s Khatron Ke Khiladi. She discusses her dream come true moment of getting in the show, preps and also discusses her fears with The Pioneer
Aarti Sreenath
Aditi Sharma shares her journey from dreaming about Khatron Ke Khiladi as a child to conquering its challenges. “I always wanted to do Khatron Ke Khiladi since I was a kid,” Aditi revealed with excitement. Despite her early industry successes, she only recently had the opportunity to fulfill this dream.
Preparation for the show was no easy feat. Aditi dived into a rigorous regime of calisthenics, weight lifting, functional strength training, yoga and meditation to ensure both her physical and mental readiness. “Yoga and meditation helped me stay mentally strong,” she recounted.
Every stunt on the show tested her limits, but two in particular stood out. Aditi, who is claustrophobic, faced her fear head-on in a stunt involving scorpions in a box. “I started chanting Shiva’s mantra and went into a meditative state. I did the stunt and even though I had just five minutes, I completed it. I was not expecting to succeed,” she shared. However, an underwater stunt proved too much, as a high fever and severe cold hindered her performance. “I couldn’t stay underwater due to the pressure and my condition,” she admitted.
A memorable highlight for Aditi was receiving praise from host Rohit Shetty, who clicked a picture with her. “That moment made me feel very proud,” she said, reflecting on the special bond she formed with fellow contestants, particularly Krishna Shroff, Aashish Mehrotra and Nimrit Kaur. Participating in Khatron Ke Khiladi had a profound impact on Aditi, both personally and professionally. “People now know me as Aditi Sharma, not just by my character names. It has humbled me and made me more sensible about handling life’s challenges,” she explained. Overcoming her claustrophobia was a significant personal victory. “I feel proud of myself for conquering that fear,” she declared.
Viewers might be surprised to learn just how challenging the show truly is. “It’s way more difficult than it looks on TV. The pressure, timing, competition and weather make it a hundred times harder,” Aditi revealed.
Looking ahead, Aditi plans to leverage her Khatron Ke Khiladi experience in future projects. “Every experience helps. I’m sure this will be valuable in ways I don’t yet realise,” she mused. Beyond acting, she finds solace in playing the guitar, singing, reading mythology and working out. “I love working out, but I don’t post about it until I’m in the shape I imagine for myself,” she said.
Balancing professional and personal life is crucial for Aditi. She insists on a 9-to-9 work schedule to ensure time for herself and her loved ones. “As actors, we are sensitive and emotional. I need to remember that Aditi is different from her characters,” she emphasised.
Offering advice to aspiring actors, Aditi stressed the importance of hard work and time management. “Set a timeline, have a plan and give your 100%. But have a backup plan. This industry can be tough,” she advised. Reflecting on the reality show experience, she warned of the prevalent politics and favouritism, suggesting that mental strength is key to survival.
She finds inspiration in many, especially older actors who remain dedicated despite challenges. “I admire their professionalism and humility,” she said.
Summing up her experience, she described Khatron Ke Khiladi as a once-in-a-lifetime adventure filled with learning and unforgettable moments. If she could have any superpower for the show, she would choose to be the smartest person to outwit her opponents. “This game is beyond physical strength; it’s mental. I wish to be smart enough to manipulate and win,” she concluded.
After a tough day of shooting, Aditi finds relaxation in a Jacuzzi and steam room. “It soothes me after the bruises and challenges,” she said, highlighting the importance of self-care amid the intense competition.
