Celebrated celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor, widely regarded as one of India’s most influential culinary icons, continues to defy age even at 61. The secret of Sanjeev Kapoor’s health and vitality is a simple, balanced, and joyful approach toward food and fitness, one that avoids extreme restrictions and encourages mindful living. Speaking at the launch of a Wonderchef store in New Delhi, chef Sanjeev Kapoor shared insights into his lifestyle choices and philosophy on eating.
Sanjeev Kapoor’s health secrets
“My secret to staying fit and healthy in my 60s is not to restrict or give up on eating what I like. In fact, I believe in eating everything and anything my heart lures for,” he said during an exclusive conversation with HT Lifestyle.
For Kapoor, food is much more than nutrition, it’s an emotional experience. “For me, food is about more than calories; it’s about memories, emotions, and the joy of sharing,” he admitted. Unlike many who demonise certain dishes, Kapoor believes in balance and moderation rather than completely cutting something off. “I don’t believe in giving up on my favourite dishes. Instead, I practice portion control. I believe that instead of stuffing your stomach, you should eat in moderation. A small platter would suffice and satiate your taste buds without any guilt. The key is to savour, not stuff,” he explained.
Fresh seasonal produce and and local foods
Kapoor emphasised the importance of eating fresh and seasonal produce, and called it a non-negotiable part of his diet. “Fresh and seasonal fruits are richer in nutrients, taste better, and are much easier to digest,” he said. He also encourages exploring local delicacies wherever possible. With a smile, he recalled indulging in street food ahead of the event: “In fact, while in New Delhi, I couldn’t resist eating chole bhature, gol gappe, and Bengali sweets before coming to the event.”
Sanjeev Kapoor’s love for chole bhature
For Kapoor, fitness is not about saying no to indulgences but about knowing when and how much to enjoy. “If I eat chole bhature for lunch, I’ll balance it out with a light dinner, like soup or grilled vegetables,” he explained. According to him, this philosophy allows him to enjoy his favourite dishes guilt-free while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Unlike many who depend on rigorous gym routines, Kapoor maintains an active lifestyle through natural movement and constant engagement. “I believe in long walks, kitchen movements, travelling, and engaging with people to keep my energy levels high,” he shared, proudly showing his phone’s active health data.
Prioritising rest, meditation, and mindfulness
Despite his demanding schedule, Kapoor prioritises quality rest and mental well-being. “A peaceful and comforting sleep is not only good for your mental health, but also keeps you physically fit and active,” he said. He also advocates meditation and yoga, calling them essential for achieving inner balance. “A peaceful mind would help you stay active, both physically and mentally,” he added.
At a time when most people resort to fad diets, extreme fitness regimes, and quick-fix solutions, Sanjeev Kapoor’s approach offers a refreshing perspective. His lifestyle is all about mindful eating, balance, and self-care rather than rigid restrictions.
