Her career in films may have been riddled with challenges, but Zareen Khan is far from slowing down. After facing criticism from her debut outing and carefully navigating her career, the actor is now embracing a new role — that of an entrepreneur. In a candid conversation with indianexpress.com, she opens up about her rollercoaster journey, fitness struggles, mental health, and her skincare venture Happy Hippie. Read the edited excerpts below:
Q. From an actor to a wellness enthusiast, and now an entrepreneur, how has your journey been?
Zareen Khan: The journey has been nothing short of a roller coaster, and I’m grateful for every twist. Acting gave me recognition, fitness gave me strength, and entrepreneurship has given me purpose. Each step taught me something new, and I wouldn’t trade that for anything.
Q. You debuted with Veer (2010). Since then, you have been selective in your projects. Why?
Zareen Khan: I faced a lot of criticism for Veer. Since I didn’t have a film family or powerful backing to get me films and brands, I wanted to be extra cautious about my next steps. Honestly, the opportunities were limited too, but I chose to wait and be mindful about what I took up.
Q. As an actor, you are expected to look a certain way. What does your fitness routine entail?
Zareen Khan: I’ve always been comfortable in my skin and body shape, irrespective of how my profession, or rather the trolls, expect me to look. An actor should be judged by their skills, not their weight. Still, fitness is a big part of my life—not for the industry, but for myself. I was an obese teenager weighing over 100 kg, and with a family history of chronic illnesses, I knew I had to make health my priority. I love keeping my workouts varied, but strength training, MMA, and tennis are my favourites.
Q. ‘Abs are made in the kitchen, not the gym,’ they say. Do you follow a strict diet plan?
Zareen Khan: I’m not chasing six-pack abs; I’m chasing good health. There was a time when I punished myself with extreme diets—sometimes surviving on just liquids. I’ve since learned that balance is key. It’s fine to indulge occasionally, but not to make it an everyday habit.
Q. Tell us about your new beauty brand. What makes it stand out in the market?
Zareen Khan: With Happy Hippie, I aimed to create simple, effective, multi-tasking products made from natural ingredients and safe actives. They’re chemical-free, gender-neutral, and sensitive-skin friendly. I spent nearly two years testing formulations, ensuring they work for people like me who don’t want complicated 10-step routines.
Q. What is the biggest skincare myth, according to you?
Zareen Khan: One of the myths I came across is that imported, expensive products are automatically better. That’s simply not true. India has always had an incredible wealth of natural skincare ingredients that have stood the test of time. We just need to stop chasing trends blindly and start appreciating what’s in our own backyard.
Q. What is the secret to your healthy hair and skin? Do you swear by any home-made/generational remedies?
Zareen Khan: Right now, my secret is Happy Hippie products.
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Q. What is the first thing you do for your body and skin as soon as you wake up?
Zareen Khan: Drink a litre of water—it sets the tone for my body and skin.
Q. How do you prioritise mental health?
Zareen Khan: I’ve always been clear that acting is my job, not my identity. It’s just one part of who I am. That clarity helps me protect my mental health and stay grounded, no matter what happens professionally.
Q. When can we expect to see you on screen next?
Zareen Khan: Theatrical releases may not be on the horizon right now, but you can catch me in my new micro-drama Phir Se Restart on Pocket TV.
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