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Vinay’s straight talk

Photo: Sandeep Saxena

Of food and films Vinay Pathak

Vegetarians are often reminded that they can’t afford to experiment, but Vinay Pathak dares to be different both in films and food habits. (In his forthcoming film ‘Straight’ he plays a man who questions his sexuality).

“Vegetarians generally try to make do with whatever little is on offer. Being in love with food, I can’t. Wherever I go I challenge the chef to come up with the best vegetarian dish he can offer,” says Vinay.

He rewinds to his college days in Allahabad where he used to indulge in food and films.

“I am originally from Bhojpur in Bihar. Since my parents transferred their problem to the world by sending me to a hostel, I had to learn to cook. I can make delicious sattu ka parantha as well as amazing pasta. Almost all my pocket money was spent on films. My roommate and I would watch up to 22 films a week.”

For Vinay having food is like a celebration. “Even when I am alone, I make sure it is an experience. I will switch on music, light candles…It feels nice. When Ranveer (Shorey) and I are shooting together, we insist the other crew members to bring home-cooked food. Everyone brings his or her speciality and then we eat together. The fun we have reflects in the work.” Meanwhile, his love for films continues unabated.

“I manage to squeeze out time like I used to do in college days. Whenever I shoot abroad, I spend my free time watching films and finding eating places. I was in Brussels for a week and managed to watch three films and ate at three different places.”

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