HT City

ARMY DEFINES YOUR PERSONALIT­Y, SAYS RAJEEV KHANDELWAL

The actor’s army background has helped him adapt to change better and prepared him for challenges

- Kavita Awaasthi kavita.awaasthi@htlive.com

Iam fortunate to be born in an Army family,” says Rajeev Khandelwal, adding his father and brother are in the Army. The actor points out that the Army makes you an individual and “defines your personalit­y”. On Army Day, Rajeev says he is thankful.

“It’s not just about discipline one learns but also the lifestyle we lead. We meet new faces regularly and get posted to new areas, often with new teachers and friends every few years. That makes one adaptable to change. Secondly, one also learns to appreciate humble accommodat­ions, which help me during travel. I am happy in a tent, in a budget hotel and a five-star property.”

Rajeev also thanks the Army for his adventurou­s spirit. He says, “I got exposure to a variety of sports and other facilities as a kid. I learned to swim, ride a horse, play squash and tennis, climb mountains and much more. Today, if I need to dive into the sea or hike or run a mile, I can.”

But he is disappoint­ed that unlike small towns, youths in big cities aren’t keen to join the Army. He adds, “Being in the Army is not just about sacrificin­g your life. It gives you a dignified life, a chance to contribute to the growth of your nation. The urban youth doesn’t think of joining the Army as a profession. I would urge them to at least look in that direction.”

I got exposure to a variety of sports and other facilities as a kid. I learned to swim, ride a horse, play squash and tennis, climb mountains and much more. Today, if I need to dive into the sea or hike or run a mile, I can.

RAJEEV KHANDELWAL ACTOR

 ?? PHOTO: SHIVAM SAXENA/HT ?? Rajeev Khandelwal’s father and brother are in the defence forces
PHOTO: SHIVAM SAXENA/HT Rajeev Khandelwal’s father and brother are in the defence forces
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