Sunaina Roshan on battling alcoholism, rebuilding health, and her bond with brother Hrithik: ‘I'm sure he is very proud of me today'
She calls herself 'camera shy,' but today, Sunaina Roshan's honest and inspiring social media videos resonate with thousands who are looking to take charge of their health and life. The elder sister of actor Hrithik Roshan and daughter of filmmaker Rakesh Roshan, Sunaina has faced significant health battles from cancer to fatty liver disease, and even alcohol addiction. But she's using her platform to help others become, in her words, 'unbreakable'.
In an exclusive conversation with indianexpress.com, Sunaina opened up about checking into rehab, overcoming addiction, rebuilding her physical and mental health, and her close bond with her superstar brother.
Q. You belong to a Bollywood family, yet have somewhat stayed away from the limelight. Did the camera never interest you?
Sunaina Roshan: I was born and raised in a family full of stars — my grandfather, dad, chacha, so it never really excited me. I was very camera-shy; it's now that I am able to break the rule for my reels. Never say never, I never thought I'd be in front of the camera, but here I am.
Q. You've been vocal about your health struggles, including cancer and fatty liver disease. What pushed you to speak out publicly?
Sunaina Roshan: I've faced so many challenges health-wise that I wouldn't wish them on anyone. So, I took it as a personal mission to help others become unbreakable, to inspire them and show them they're not alone. If I can do it, so can you.
Q. You have shared about your time in rehab, undertaking a 28-day course to overcome alcohol addiction. What kept you going in such dark times?
Sunaina Roshan: Knowing that there was a brighter future ahead. Rehab was just a step forward. There's a difference between drinking occasionally and being an addict. Addiction is not knowing when to stop. Today, I'm in control. I might have a glass of wine once in a while, but that's it.
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A post shared by Sunaina Roshan (@roshansunaina)
Q. What was the most difficult part of that journey?
Sunaina Roshan: Getting up at 6 AM, having breakfast by 7:30 AM, going through meditation, and then being grilled by six to seven counsellors daily. There was a long list of things we couldn't have — no sugar, caffeine, perfumes, even chocolate. The food was also tough for me because I was the only vegetarian among 99 non-vegetarians, so my meals were pretty repetitive.
Q. What have these experiences taught you about health?
Sunaina Roshan: That health is wealth. Never take your health for granted. Care for your body, your mind, and prioritise yourself. I stick to habits that keep me grounded — journaling, meditation, eating clean, spending time with family, and hitting the gym. Good habits keep us in control.
Q. Hrithik is known for his chiselled physique. Do you often/ever gym together or exchange notes on healthy eating/exercises?
Sunaina Roshan: Absolutely. He's been my biggest cheerleader, especially during the two years when jaundice turned my life upside down. Whenever I hit a milestone in the gym, my trainer records it and I send it to him — I know he'll give me honest feedback. We often discuss the importance of healthy eating and fitness. I'm sure he's very proud of me today.
A post shared by Sunaina Roshan (@roshansunaina)
Q. How do you take care of your mental well-being?
Sunaina Roshan: Mental and physical health are closely intertwined. If you're not okay mentally, it reflects physically. You have to become unbreakable in your head first — then you can work on the rest. I'm very disciplined with my daily to-do list. I finish what I start, and that kind of structure helps keep me mentally focused.
Q. What does your daily meal and exercise plan look like?
Sunaina Roshan: Habits shape us. Earlier, I was addicted to unhealthy food, but now my daily routine includes small steps –– waking up early, eating on time, exercising, meditating, journaling. I follow a diet that suits my body's needs, avoid junk completely, eat homemade meals, and go for healthy alternatives. My workout mainly involves weight training; I don't do much cardio.
Q. Your parents are also fitness inspirations. Do they motivate you?
Sunaina Roshan: My dad is my biggest inspiration. At 75, he still works out and eats clean. That kind of consistency and mental strength is what motivates me every day.
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A post shared by Sunaina Roshan (@roshansunaina)
Q. Wh0 has been your biggest strength through the highs and lows of life?
Sunaina Roshan: Both my parents. I can't choose one over the other. They've supported me mentally in different ways. My mother is softer, which makes it easier for me to talk to her.
Q. How would you describe your relationship with Hrithik over the years? Do you still indulge in sibling quarrels and banter?
Sunaina Roshan: We're both over 50 now, so not so much anymore! But as kids, we fought every single day. My mum was an only child, so managing the two of us was a lot. He'd hit me or mess with my specs all the time, typical sibling stuff.
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