Actor Pankaj Berry is busy cooking, cleaning and fighting corona-induced negativities

Pankaj Berry is playing the character of Tathacharya in Sony Sab’s show Tenali Rama. He was in Chandigarh prior to the lockdown. Now, back in Mumbai with his family, the actor shares how he is keeping himself busy and positive.

Are you with your family right now?

I am staying with my immediate family in Mumbai, my wife and son. My extended family of my brothers and sisters are in Haryana and Punjab.

What is your daily schedule?

Post breakfast, it is my duty to do the cleaning of the house. I also help out with other household chores. I am reading, and writing

as well.

What is the worst thing that can happen when one’s confined to home?

The most dangerous thing that can happen during the lockdown is the onset of negative thoughts. I try my best to block all negativity and stay positive all the time.

What precautions you are taking against this dangerous virus?

I am doing what most people are doing… staying at home, maintaining hand hygiene and wearing a mask.

What is your favourite cuisine apart from Punjabi food?

I love Kashmiri food too. My wife is from Kashmir and she cooks yummy Kashmiri dishes.

One dish you like the most…

I like makki di roti with sarson da saag with white butter and a glass of lassi. I also like Punjabi gobhi-aloo, kurkuri bhindi, chana, rajma and kadhi in addition to various kinds of parathas.

One Punjabi trait that you admire…

Punjabis are genuine people. They are truthful, which is something I really like.

Who is yourfavourite Punjabi singer and song?

Gurdas Mann is my favourite. He is my friend and I acted in a film,Punjabi Subedar,with him. I like the new-generation singers too. My latest Punjabi movie is also scheduled to release once the lockdown is over. The movie is titled Winger Di Vahuti and I play the lead role in that.

When was the last time you performed Bhangra?

I used to do a show called Ranbir Rano in which I did Bhangra. I do bhangra in most weddings. Recently, I did it at my niece’s wedding.

The best place to eat authentic Punjabi food in and around Punjab?

You get authentic Punjabi food at Murthal, especially their dal makhani and tandoori parathas are amazing. Amritsar’s chhole-kulche is my favourite.

How different are your conversations with a Punjabi vis-a-vis a non-Punjabi?

I will always speak with a Punjabi in Punjabi only.

— Dharam Pal