Pankaj Tripathi says he lost weight, worked out three hours a day after father’s death; took acting break to introspect: ‘Something’s wrong’

Pankaj Tripathi Reflects on Grief, Fitness, and His Life’s Reset After His Father’s Death

Pankaj Tripathi, one of Bollywood’s most versatile actors, recently opened up about a deeply personal journey. Few knew he was grappling with such profound changes. The talented star, known for his powerful performances in films like Mirzapur, Ludo, and Gangs of Wasseypur, revealed that after his father’s death, he felt compelled to reassess his life.

In a recent interview, Pankaj shared how he coped with the loss. Instead of immersing himself in work, he stepped back from acting to focus on both his mental and physical health. “After my father passed away, I felt like something was wrong, something deep within me was unsettled,” he said. This realization led him to prioritize personal well-being over professional commitments.

The Journey of Introspection

For someone as dedicated and hardworking as Pankaj, taking a break from acting wasn’t an easy decision. “I’ve always been passionate about my craft,” he admitted. However, the grief he experienced after his father’s death forced him to slow down and look inward. “I needed to understand what was going on with me, emotionally and physically.”

This period of introspection wasn’t just about missing his father. It was also about coming to terms with the inevitable changes that loss brings to one’s life. “When you lose a parent, it’s not just about them being gone,” he explained. “It’s about realizing your own mortality, your responsibilities, and what truly matters in life.”

During this time, Pankaj consciously distanced himself from work and public life. Instead, he dedicated his days to quiet reflection, considering his journey, his relationships, and his future. He admitted, “I questioned everything—am I living a meaningful life? Am I taking care of myself, not just for me but for my family? Am I truly happy?”

A Surprising Commitment to Fitness

Interestingly, one of the most unexpected changes in Pankaj’s routine was his commitment to physical fitness. Known for his grounded and relatable persona, he had never been particularly vocal about health or exercise. Yet, after his father’s passing, he embraced a rigorous fitness regime.

“I started working out three hours a day,” he revealed. “It wasn’t about achieving six-pack abs or looking a certain way. Instead, it was about feeling strong, feeling alive, and honoring my body. I realized that if I wanted to face life’s challenges, I needed to be healthy in mind and body.”

This transformation saw him shedding weight, adopting a disciplined workout routine, and paying close attention to his diet. In addition to physical exercise, Pankaj prioritized mindfulness and stress management. Yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises became part of his daily ritual.

“I started with small goals—just showing up at the gym, doing stretches, lifting light weights,” he said. “Gradually, I built up the stamina to work out for hours. Honestly, I surprised myself with what I was capable of.”

The Acting Break: A Time for Renewal

Stepping away from the limelight, especially during a successful career phase, was a bold move. Yet, Pankaj felt it was necessary. “When you’re constantly working, you don’t get time to process emotions or to check in with yourself,” he explained. Consequently, after his father’s death, he knew he needed that time.

During his break, Pankaj turned down new projects and avoided scripts. Instead, he focused entirely on healing. His days filled with workouts, quiet moments of reflection, reading, and spending time with family. “It was like hitting the reset button,” he said. “I gave myself permission to feel, to heal, and to just be.”

Admittedly, the break wasn’t without its challenges. “There were moments when I felt lost,” Pankaj shared. However, he reminded himself that it was okay to feel that way. He wasn’t running from grief; rather, he was learning to live with it.

Lessons from Loss

Reflecting on his journey, Pankaj believes his father’s death profoundly changed him. “Losing my father made me realize how precious life is,” he said. “It taught me to slow down, listen to my body and mind, and cherish my loved ones.”

Many fans and colleagues have found inspiration in his story. His openness about grief, fitness, and personal growth offers a refreshing perspective in an industry that often glorifies constant work and perfection. “It’s okay to take a step back,” he emphasized. “It’s okay to say, ‘I’m not okay right now, and I need time to heal.’”

What’s Next for Pankaj Tripathi?

Now, after months of self-care and reflection, Pankaj feels ready to return to acting. He’s excited about new projects, but he’s determined to maintain a healthier work-life balance. “I’ve learned to say no,” he said with a smile. “It’s not about how many projects you do, but how meaningful they are.”

Audiences can expect to see Pankaj back on the big screen soon, bringing his signature authenticity and depth to every role. Moreover, they’ll see an actor who has embraced personal growth, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Conclusion: A Story of Strength and Self-Care

Pankaj Tripathi’s journey reminds us that even the most successful among us face life’s challenges. His story of losing his father, finding strength through fitness, and taking a break to heal resonates deeply. It’s a testament to the power of introspection, self-care, and resilience.

As he returns to acting, Pankaj carries with him not just memories of his father, but also the lessons he learned during his time away. For his fans, his story offers an important message: it’s okay to pause, it’s okay to heal, and it’s always possible to come back stronger.