As Dangal completes seven years of release on December 23, we delve into the awe-inspiring physical metamorphosis that Aamir Khan underwent to portray the real life character of Mahavir Singh Phogat, a popular Indian wrestler. We are all aware that Aamir Khan is not just a method actor but also has meticulous attention to detail. While these traits of his are legendary, his transformation for the sports drama was a testament of sorts of a different level when it comes to his dedication as an artist.
For the unversed, in the film, Khan portrayed two distinct phases of Mahavir Singh Phogat’s life—the seasoned 60-year-old wrestler and the vigorous 20-year-old version. What ensued was not just a transformation but a physical crusade that showcased Khan’s unwavering commitment to authenticity. To embody the older Phogat, Khan embarked on a journey of deliberate weight gain. He gained a staggering 30 kilograms, reaching a weight of 98 kilograms. Scenes where Khan sported a protruding belly, constituting 80 percent of the movie, were shot first. Remarkably, Khan chose to forego the use of a body suit, opting instead to organically manifest the physical attributes of the character.
The real challenge lay in the subsequent weight loss phase, where Khan shed the acquired weight to convincingly portray the younger Phogat. Starting at 98 kilograms with a body fat percentage of 37, Khan meticulously engaged in a four-month-long regimen that saw his body fat drop to 18.15 percent. The Herculean effort didn’t stop there; the transformation continued until Khan achieved a staggering 9.6 percent body fat.
In his own words, Aamir Khan back in the day recounted the gruelling process, stating, “I was in Arizona, USA for the weight loss programme. I went to this place to get the start right. The period was very challenging and exciting for me.” His commitment to the craft extended to a punishing daily routine that included a stringent diet of 1500 calories—far below his body’s requirement—combined with an exhaustive exercise schedule. The actor’s day in Arizona comprised trekking for hours, weight training, cardio exercises in the pool, cycling, tennis, and extensive walking. A testament to his dedication, Khan’s daily routine clocked an astonishing 7-8 hours of rigorous exercise.
Aamir Khan’s physical transformation for the film showcased his willingness to go to extraordinary lengths to breathe life into his characters. Dangal also featured Fatima Sana Shaikh and Sanya Malhotra in lead roles along with an ensemble cast.
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