Jitin Gulati | The Famous Bollywood Actor’s Enriching Travel Stories

Here are some straightforward, truthful and unbiased revelations by MS Dhoni: The Untold Story actor, Jitin Gulati. In a quick interview with Adotrip, Jitin not only spoke about his favourite places in India but also shared the reasons that keeps him connected to roots.

Exclusive Interview of MS Dhoni: The Untold Story Actor, Jitin Gulati

Now that’s a treat for all his fans, right? Without further ado, let’s get the ball rolling!

: What is travelling to you?

Travelling is the most humbling experience for me. I feel, we are so accustomed to living in a confined area that after a while we tend to take it for granted and assume that it's our world. Travelling breaks this pattern and helps in extending horizons.

People get an exposure to so many different communities and get a chance to discover distinct cultures and values practiced around the globe. Moreover, travelling brings in a realization that learning is a continuous process.

: You hail from Delhi. What keeps you connected to the city?

Home, family, friends, memories - Delhi is where my heart is. I can never take Delhi out of my system. I did my schooling from Apeejay School, Faridabad and passed out from Hansraj College, North Campus. There are some beautiful memories of formative years, my first job in Connaught Place, hanging out with friends, crazy night outs and fun time with family.

Delhi always feels the same because all these memories keep flashing. Also, the city has a very peculiar character, it has a sort of Punjabiyat in it which obviously is so relatable. Of course, not to forget Delhi’s food. Even though I am perpetually on a diet, I don’t mind cheating and binging to heart’s content when I am in Delhi. You don’t get that kind of food, the kind of delectable spread anywhere else.

: Which is your favourite place in India and why?

I have actually travelled extensively in India when I was handling a product for HSBC Bank. I have been to every branch and stayed in almost every part of the country. Also, after getting into the acting profession, I have more opportunities now to travel the length and breadth of India as shootings keep happening at different locales.

I love the serenity of Shimla, cultural grandeur of Kerala, scenic splendors of Northeast. Places like Munnar are really fascinating. Pristine clear skies, verdant plantations, thick clouds, you really don’t realize where land starts and fog enters. There’s a mix of land and clouds sometimes and the experience is surreal. Another great discovery was Ranchi when we were shooting for MS Dhoni: The Untold Story. I really enjoyed local delicacies and rawness of the place.

: Any unique festival of India that you have heard or been a part of?

As I grew up in Faridabad, my inclination was largely towards Diwali, Dussehra and Holi. I was not versed with the colourful festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Ramadan.

Ever since I moved to Bombay, I really look forward to Ganesh Chaturthi because of the energy the city manifests within those 10-14 days. The entire city reverberates with music, positive vibes and the amount of love people express for each other, it's quite fascinating.

Similarly, in the case of Ramadan, I wasn’t plugged in with the culture and background of observing fast for 30 days. I happened to learn about all these cultural nuances after settling down in Bombay.

: If you have to recreate ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’ in India, which three destinations would you pick and why?

I think one destination would be Leh Ladakh because whatever fun activities were done in Spain can be replicated with thrilling activities in this part of the country. Lofty mountains, breathtaking terrains, serpent roads - Leh Ladakh offers a plethora of hair raising experiences.

Another place would be Mumbai. I would want the rich brats of ZNMD to experience travelling by local trains, rickshaws etc and get hands on with some real adventure. I would also like them to experience the laid back charm of Kolkata - The City of Joy. Binging on some Puchkas, Roshogullas, Mishti Doi and savouring the endless culinary delights would be quite an experience.

: Where would you prefer to go for a relaxing holiday in India?

Somewhere in the mountains, I love the mountains in North India. I want to visit Jammu and Kashmir, I have heard so much about the surreal beauty of the valley. It would be a feast for eyes.

Leh Ladakh is also on my bucket list but it won’t be as relaxing because reaching there itself is a task. All the magic in Ladakh begins only after getting acclimated to high altitude and low oxygen levels.

Rapid Fire

: Three travel essentials

Charger, Ipod and Anti Allergic pills. I am allergic to changing climates.

: Beach or mountains. Pick one.

Mountains. Always!

: Describe India in one sentence

Unity in Diversity

: Which actor would you like to travel with?

I would like to travel with the cast of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. It would be quite funny and cool. Even Dil Chahata Hai's cast would be a great choice here.

: Your favourite dish from Indian menu?

I love Ilish Maach - a hearty Bengali fish curry is incredible in taste and texture.