The Foundation: Start in Your 30s
Rujuta Diwekar uses Karisma Kapoor as a prime example of how long-term health is a result of cumulative benefits. She emphasizes that the habits women build in their 30s can significantly impact their well-being in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. This is a crucial
decade when, despite peak bone density, hormonal shifts begin to occur. Rather than waiting for the signs of ageing, Diwekar’s advice is to establish a foundation of consistent health practices early on. For Kapoor, this meant focusing on fitness and balanced eating long before it became a corrective measure. The takeaway is not to chase a number on the scale but to build a routine that will carry you through the decades.
Principle 1: Eat, Don't Deprive
One of the most radical aspects of Diwekar's advice, exemplified by Karisma, is the rejection of restrictive diets. Diwekar cautions against cutting out entire food groups like carbs or sugar, especially during the hormonal transitions of one's 30s. Doing so, she warns, can lead to micronutrient deficiencies and diminish the joy of eating. Karisma herself has been vocal about this approach, stating she eats everything, including carbs and desserts, but in moderation. She famously credited Diwekar with helping her lose 25 kilos post-pregnancy by eating fish curry and rice every night, a testament to the fact that you don't need to starve to be fit. The focus is on balanced, home-cooked meals that are both nourishing and satisfying.
Principle 2: Embrace 'Ghar Ka Khaana'
At the heart of this lifestyle is the celebration of 'ghar ka khaana' or traditional home-cooked food. Diwekar is a staunch advocate for eating local, seasonal, and traditional meals. This philosophy moves away from exotic, imported 'superfoods' and toward the wisdom found in our own kitchens. Think simple, wholesome meals like dal-rice, khichdi, and sabzi with different kinds of rotis like jowar or bajra. Karisma has mentioned her love for simple Indian meals like dal, roti, and sabzi. This approach ensures that the food is fresh, culturally relevant, and suited to the local climate, while also being easier on digestion and overall health.
Principle 3: Exercise for Strength, Not Weight Loss
Another key shift in perspective is viewing exercise as a tool for building strength, stamina, and stability, not just as a means for weight loss. Diwekar recommends at least three hours of exercise per week, which could include anything from walking and cycling to dancing or strength training. The goal is consistency and making movement an enjoyable part of life. This regular activity is crucial for maintaining bone mineral density and muscle mass as we age. By focusing on getting stronger and fitter, weight management becomes a natural byproduct rather than a stressful, all-consuming goal.
Putting It All Together: A Mindful Routine
The Karisma Kapoor-Rujuta Diwekar approach is not about a rigid set of rules but a flexible and mindful lifestyle. It involves starting your day with a fruit or soaked nuts to keep energy levels stable. The 4-6 pm meal is considered crucial to prevent evening hunger pangs and poor dinner choices; a simple, wholesome snack like poha or a handful of peanuts can make a huge difference. Above all, it’s about moderation and balance. Karisma herself admits to loving chocolate and eating biryani, but it's part of an overall healthy pattern, not a 'cheat day' that spirals into guilt. This sustainable approach allows for indulgences without derailing long-term health goals.
