The Lockdown Diary: Ankur Rathee

The coronavirus lockdown in India has had an effect on all of us. Renowned actor, Ankur Rathee, who is currently seen in Amazon Prime Video's 'Four more shots please S2' shares his lockdown story and aspects about the current phase.

Describe your 'lockdown' period in just 'one' word...

• Humbling 

What do you enjoy the most about this period - something you will cherish the most!

• Stillness. I’m addicted to an activity, but this period has forced me to let conversations and thoughts breathe.  With nowhere to be, I can be fully present with my loved ones. 

What new hobbies have you started in this period?

• I’m cooking! I cannot tell you how empowering it is to source, cook, and eat your own food. It’s an entirely different art form I’m so grateful to be learning. 

Three films/web series/content pieces you've loved watching?

• The Crown
• Tiger King
• Bachelorette Season 15 (shut up, don’t judge me)

What do you miss eating or drinking the most?

• Desserts - pastries, cakes, cookies. Lord help me, I don’t know how much longer I can take this. 

Three friends, you miss spending time with...

• Benny Dayal
• Jim Sarbh
• Shikha Uberoi

What's the one skill you did not know you had?

• Patience (my sister and I are at each other’s throats!)

Three places you'll rush to, right after the lockdown is over...

• The Beach,
• Cinemas
• Bayroute (Mediterranean restaurant)

What is the most annoying thing you've observed during this period?

• That I require other people and a collaborative environment to get work done. Without the pressure of a meeting or a deadline, I’m a sloth. I’m working to develop my will power such that I’m not dependent on others to create and execute.  

What has the lockdown helped you change or realize - emotionally or mentally?

• Reading is everything. I forgot what it was to laugh and cry with written characters. To escape in your imagination. To fly, to be heartbroken, to be childlike. I am retraining myself to snuggle up with a book rather than “Netflix and chill”. The latter, I have been reminded, can never replace the former.