Between busy schedules and quiet evenings Sony SAB actors turn to cooking for comfort and balance

Long shooting hours and packed schedules are part of an actor’s everyday life, but beyond the lights and scripts, many of them find comfort in something far simpler as cooking. For some it’s a way to switch off. For others, it’s a creative outlet. And for a few, the kitchen has quietly become their favourite place to unwind. Sony SAB artists Akshaya Hindalkar, Rishi Saxena and Avinesh Rekhi may spend most of their time bringing characters to life on screen, but off screen, they enjoy experimenting with flavours, recreating family recipes, and putting together meals that reflect their personality.

Akshhaya Hindalkar, playing the role of Rashi in Pushpa Impossible, shares, “I’m completely self-taught when it comes to cooking. Most of what I know is from trial and error, and sometimes watching videos and trying it myself. Now, whenever I get time, especially on an off day, I like trying something new. I’m not a professional at all, but I enjoy the process. It’s nice to create something with your own hands and see it come together.”

Rishi Saxena, playing Sanjay in Itti Si Khushi, shares, “I don’t cook every day because schedules can get hectic, but whenever I have time, I genuinely enjoy stepping into the kitchen. I like keeping things simple and getting the basics right. Even if I’m not making something elaborate, I enjoy being involved, sometimes cooking fully, sometimes just helping around. There’s something nice about preparing food slowly without rushing. It feels personal.”

Avinesh Rekhi, playing Lord Shiva in Ganesh Kartikey, shares, “For me, cooking is always a family activity. Whenever I get the chance, we turn it into something fun at home. The children usually decide what we’re making, and we all step into the kitchen together. I  need a director, and that role is taken very seriously by my wife, she guides us while we follow instructions. Those moments are less about the dish and more about spending time together. The one thing I make with complete confidence is Kadha Prasad. I prepare it on special occasions like Gurpurab, and that’s something I truly enjoy doing with full dedication.”

From comfort food to carefully plated favourites, cooking has become more than just a routine, it is a space where everyone slows down, creates something with their own hands, and finds a sense of balance amid their busy lives.