Drishyam actor Kamlesh Sawant looks back at his childhood struggles and disciplined upbringing

Actor Kamlesh Sawant recently opened up about his modest middle-class upbringing, his family's financial struggles, and the childhood habits he still maintains today.

Father's Discipline

His father worked in the Railways as a sports secretary and bodybuilder. The family followed a strict diet that included sprouts, chapatis, and milk with an egg and sugar, while bread and butter were never served.

Hard Times

Financial setbacks were common in the household. His father supported a large family that included relatives, and his mother managed the entire home using just a single saree. To deal with hunger, Kamlesh used to eat a banana or Parle-G biscuits rolled inside a chapati.

College Days

He only learned about birthday cakes and greeting cards after joining Bhavan's College. On his birthday on June 12, his mother gave him Rs 10, which he used to buy a plate of medu vada sambar and an ice cream for five rupees each.

Theatre and Career

His guruji advised him during his theatre days to only accept roles that fit his personality, noting that he did not look like a traditional hero and was better suited to play a cop. His mother wanted him to leave theatre for a secure, salaried job. Kamlesh later married at age 37, after supporting his wife's dream of becoming an air hostess.

Context

Actors often spend years performing in theatre and small roles before gaining recognition in mainstream cinema. Backgrounds involving financial hardship and disciplined routines are common themes in profiles of artists who achieve success later in life.