Imran Khan Opens Up About Life and Career in Interview

In a heartfelt interview with Humans of Bombay, actor Imran Khan shared intimate details about his personal and professional life. From his early days as a child artist to dealing with body image issues and planning a comeback, Imran’s story is one of resilience and self-discovery.

Early Life and Childhood Struggles

Imran’s journey began at a young age, moving back to India with his mother after his parents divorced when he was just three years old. His first school experience was tough, leading to development issues like stammering and anxiety. “My first school was very liberal with caning, due to which I developed a lot of development issues such as stammering. I also started feeling stressed and anxious. I used to shut down, that’s when my mother took me out of the school,” Imran shared.

Passion for Acting and Filmmaking

Imran started his acting journey as a child in the film “Jo Jeeta Woh Sikander.” Inspired by Indiana Jones movies, he initially aspired to be an archaeologist. His big break as a lead actor came in 2008 with “Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na” alongside Genelia D’Souza. “I made my first film as a director when I was 10-year-old. I used to borrow a handy cam and get together with friends to do it. Now, I do it but with a script and a plan,” he mentioned.

Battling Depression and Skinny Shaming

Imran candidly discussed his struggles with depression and body image issues. He revealed how the pressure to maintain a certain physique led him to take protein shakes and spend hours in the gym. Eventually, he resorted to steroids, which had temporary benefits but long-term negative effects. “The results are great but the sad things happen when you stop taking them. Because you feel depressed that you don’t have the same body, and I am skinny again. It was all about external pressure. You have to have a conversation with yourself,” he said.

Co-Parenting and Family Dynamics

Imran separated from Avantika in 2019, and they share a daughter, Imara. Drawing from his own childhood experience of having divorced parents, he strives to provide a supportive environment for Imara. “They are good role models. Despite their differences, they were consciously engaged with me with the intention of loving me. I was their priority,” Imran reflected, emphasizing the importance of shielding his daughter from the pain of separation.

Planning a Comeback

Imran’s last film, “Katti Batti,” did not fare well at the box office. Despite a planned comeback with a Disney+ Hotstar series being shelved, he remains optimistic. “The sudden resurgence is kind of backwards. One would assume that I would be signing projects and promoting it. But I have not signed any project yet. I am open to working on a project and have been actively looking for the project,” he explained. Imran is currently meeting people and reading scripts, seeking projects that genuinely interest him.