From ruling daily soaps to winning Bigg Boss 15, Tejasswi Prakash is a powerhouse of talent. But beyond the screen, she’s also a fitness icon. Juggling hectic shoots while staying fit isn’t easy, yet she makes it look effortless. Now, as the face of Quaker’s #NewYearStartsToday campaign, Tejasswi is inspiring fans to ditch the “perfect time” mindset and start prioritising health today. In an exclusive chat with Zoom, she reveals her secret to staying in shape, thoughts on wellness, and how small, mindful choices make all the difference. Ready to take notes from her fitness playbook?

Excerpts…

What is your secret to staying fit despite having such hectic shooting schedules?

My secret lies in keeping things simple and consistent. Even with a packed schedule, I make it a priority to listen to my body and do what feels right for me. Whether it’s squeezing in a quick workout or making nourishing food choices, it’s about balance and not overcomplicating things. I believe fitness is more about steady habits than rigid routines.

Recently, PM Narendra Modi appealed to fight obesity by making balanced eating choices and exercising. Do you think this is a step in a positive direction?

Promoting balanced eating and regular exercise is definitely a positive step. Making small, mindful changes in our everyday habits can have a big impact over time. It’s great to see conversations around wellness becoming more mainstream; inspiring people to prioritize their health in a way that feels sustainable for them.

Which is that one rule you always abide by when it comes to fitness?

My one rule is to stay consistent and kind to myself. For me, fitness is about feeling good, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. I focus on balanced eating habits, choosing nourishing foods that fuel me, and staying active in ways that fit into my lifestyle. It’s not about perfection but about steady progress and finding what keeps me happy and energised.

In an industry like yours, there is constant pressure to look a certain way. Does it ever take a toll mentally?

In any fast-paced industry, there’s always a push to give your best, but I believe in focusing on inner well-being. Prioritising my mental and physical health through balanced choices helps me stay centred and true to myself. It’s about making decisions that align with my own happiness and confidence.

In today’s time, stress eating is a real problem. Have you ever been through it and what tips would you like to share to tackle this?

Stress affects everyone differently, and I manage it by staying mindful of my habits. Simple things like staying hydrated, practicing deep breathing, or choosing wholesome snacks help me feel more in control. It’s essential to approach these moments with self-kindness and find what helps you stay balanced.

What exactly is the Quaker #NewYearStartsToday campaign all about? How do you plan to get your message across to people?

The Quaker #NewYearStartsToday campaign encourages people to rethink how they approach their goals for the new year. Instead of waiting for a specific date, it’s about taking small, achievable steps towards better choices anytime you feel ready. With Quaker, the focus is on incorporating simple and nutritious options into daily life. The campaign’s message is simple yet powerful: you don’t need to wait for the “right time” to prioritise yourself. Together, we’re inspiring people to take that first step today.