A Philosophy of Consistency, Not Restriction
Rujuta Diwekar’s approach, famously associated with stars like Karisma and Kareena Kapoor, pivots away from the world of extreme diets and punishing workout schedules. Instead, it champions a sustainable lifestyle built on decades of consistency. Diwekar has
noted that Karisma Kapoor’s enduring fitness is a cumulative benefit of habits she began cultivating in her 30s. This long-term view argues that health isn't about chasing a number on a scale but about integrating movement and balanced nutrition into your daily life. The philosophy is clear: regulation is far more effective than restriction. Rather than eliminating entire food groups like carbs or sugar, the focus is on eating wholesome meals without guilt, a practice Karisma herself has embraced.
Embracing Traditional and Local Foods
A cornerstone of Diwekar's advice is to eat 'ghar ka khana'—simple, home-cooked meals. She advocates for traditional, seasonal, and local foods, which are nutrient-dense and aligned with our body's needs. This means enjoying staples like dal, roti, and vegetables, and even including rice at night. Karisma Kapoor famously mentioned losing weight while eating fish curry and rice for dinner every night, a testament to the idea that you don't need to deprive yourself of carbs to be healthy. The approach also reclaims traditional fats like ghee, which Diwekar says helps regulate cholesterol and aids in fat loss when used to enhance flavour rather than mask it. Simple snacks like poha, upma, and fruits like bananas are also encouraged, proving you don’t have to survive on boiled vegetables to stay fit.
Mindful Eating and Listening to Your Body
Beyond what you eat, Diwekar places immense importance on how you eat. The principle of mindful eating—paying full attention to your food without distractions like your phone or TV—is key. This practice helps you recognise your body's natural signals of hunger and fullness, preventing overeating. It’s about creating a connection with your meal, which improves digestion and satisfaction. Diwekar suggests simple traditional practices, like sitting cross-legged on the floor to eat, which can aid digestion and nutrient assimilation. This self-awareness extends to exercise as well. Karisma is known for preferring yoga over intense gym sessions, listening to her body and choosing forms of movement that feel good. Diwekar advises a minimum of three hours of exercise per week, not for weight loss, but to build bone density and strength for the long run.
Building Habits for the Decades Ahead
Diwekar specifically highlights the 30s as a crucial decade for women to establish healthy habits. This is when hormonal shifts begin and bone mineral density peaks. By focusing on consistent exercise and a balanced, non-restrictive diet during this time, women can better navigate the changes that come in their 40s and 50s. The advice is to stop obsessing over weight loss and instead focus on being active and eating joyfully. This prevents the micronutrient deficiencies that often accompany crash diets. Karisma Kapoor serves as a prime example of this principle in action. Her lifestyle isn't about quick fixes but about a deep-seated commitment to a balanced routine that includes everything in moderation, from home-cooked meals to the occasional treat.
