Lin Laishram on life with Randeep Hooda, their love for food, and her Manipuri kitchen: ‘He's usually on a strict diet'
Lin Laishram dons many hats — model, actor, entrepreneur and archer, a role she graciously reminded us not to leave out. But despite her packed schedule, the Mary Kom actor shows no signs of slowing down. And while she finds it extremely tough to pick what she enjoys doing the most, she finally did, and it is something that makes her feel 'whole'.
With each new chapter, Laishram moves one step closer to her dreams, the most recent being the launch of Mumbai 's first cloud kitchen specialising in Manipuri cuisine, called Akhoi.
In this exclusive interview with indianexpress.com, she opened up about married life with Randeep Hooda, their shared love of food, her journey as a woman in the world of entrepreneurship, and her newest venture. Read the edited excerpts below:
Q. A model, an actor, and also an entrepreneur—how has your journey been?
Lin Laishram: You missed one—an archer! I've truly enjoyed every stage of my life. Those were conscious choices I made, and though I didn't have a support system, I always lived life on my terms. I've been deeply in love with all my pursuits and have given them my whole heart. I feel lucky to be doing what I want and fulfilling my dreams one step at a time.
Q. If you had to pick one of the three roles — and being a wife — which would it be, and why?
Lin Laishram: That's a tough one because I genuinely love all the roles I play. But if I had to choose, I'd pick acting. There's something about being in front of the camera that makes me feel whole. I also love discussing my work with my husband—he's my sounding board, and I appreciate that I can talk to him about any role without feeling judged.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Akhoi Mumbai (@akhoimumbai)
Q. You recently added another feather to your entrepreneurial cap with the launch of Akhoi, a cloud kitchen serving Manipuri cuisine. Tell us about the idea and its execution.
Lin Laishram: I've been living in Bombay for nearly two decades now, and in all that time, I couldn't find a single Manipuri restaurant. I missed home food so much that I started cooking myself and inviting friends over. They loved it, which gave me the courage. After much hesitation, I took the plunge and started Akhoi. It's been a labour of love, and the next dream is to open a physical outlet soon.
Q. The venture is currently limited to Mumbai. Is there a high demand for regional Manipuri cuisine in the state compared to Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, Pune, or Chandigarh?
Lin Laishram: That was actually one of my biggest concerns—there isn't a large Manipuri population in Mumbai. That's why I opted for a cloud kitchen format, to test the waters. But surprisingly, the response has been encouraging. We're learning that our food is resonating with a lot of people here, even beyond the community.
Q. Your venture is touted to serve 'authentic' Manipuri cuisine. Take us through the menu and how frequently you source raw materials. Is it a challenge?
Lin Laishram: Creating the menu — to curate something that stays true to Manipuri roots yet is approachable for Mumbai's palate — was challenging. With the help of my dear friend and chef, Nikesh, we selected the most popular and loved dishes. We've also included some pan Asian street food with a slight twist of Manipuri.
Sourcing ingredients is definitely a challenge. We use preservation techniques like freezing and drying, and we've adapted by incorporating local vegetables available in Mumbai into traditional Manipuri recipes.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Randeep Hooda (@randeephooda)
Q. Since we're talking about food, what do mealtimes look like in the Laishram-Hooda household? Do you both stick to meal plans and weigh your food?
Lin Laishram: I love cooking when I'm inspired and have the time. Randeep really enjoys home-cooked meals, so it works well for us. But he's usually on a strict diet. His food is very balanced and measured. Mine depends on my mood.
Q. You both come from different backgrounds. Was there a food connection that helped you bond?
Lin Laishram: Absolutely! Our cheat days are where we truly bond. That's our common ground. Otherwise, we have very different food habits, which makes things fun and interesting.
Q. Your social media feed proves your love for experimenting with style. What does fashion mean to you?
Lin Laishram: For me, fashion isn't about trends anymore, it's about conscious, sustainable choices. The fast fashion cycle is overwhelming, and I'm trying to be more mindful of what I wear. Comfort plays a huge role, too. It's important for me to feel like myself in whatever I'm wearing.
I feel lucky to be doing what I want and fulfilling my dreams one step at a time, the actor-model said. (Photo: PR handout)
Q. How challenging is it to be a woman in the restaurant industry or business in general? Have you had to push your way through?
Lin Laishram: I'm not from the culinary world, and I had almost no idea about how the system works. But when you're driven by love for your culture, your food you don't see challenges the same way. They just become part of the journey. And honestly, this is just the beginning for me.
Q. Describe life after marriage — and your relationship with Randeep. What's the secret to a healthy bond?
Lin Laishram: Life after marriage has been good. We share a lot of common interests, but we also respect each other's individuality. We live very different professional lives, and I think that's healthy. Like any relationship, marriage needs attention, time, responsibility and a bit of fun. That's what keeps the wheel turning.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Indian Express
a day ago
- Indian Express
‘Don't mind if they hit the floor': Actor Whoopi Goldberg says she hasn't worn a bra in 50 years; we asked women if we really need them anymore
For five decades, Hollywood actor Whoopi Goldberg has lived free of underwires, adjustable straps, and padding. In a recent episode of The View, which she co-hosts with Joy Behar, Sunny Hostin, Sara Haines, Ana Navarro, and Alyssa Farah Griffin, during a conversation on how bras should be worn, Goldberg mentioned her bra-free existence. 'I don't wear one. I haven't worn a bra in 50 years,' she said, adding, 'It's too uncomfortable, and I don't mind if they hit the floor. They're mine.' This came after Behar, 82, said she feels like 'letting these girls loose,' and, turning to Goldberg, said, 'She liberated those girls a long time ago.' Hostin, then, called bras 'torture devices'. These comments illuminated a truth many women whisper about in fitting rooms but rarely discuss openly – the complex, often fraught relationship between women and undergarments that the society insists they need. From boardrooms to suburban playgrounds, some women are questioning whether the discomfort, cost, and daily ritual of wearing bras serves them – or simply uphold outdated ideas of propriety and femininity. As we peel the layers of myth and reexamine early conditioning, a more nuanced picture emerges of what women actually need, want, and deserve when it comes to supporting their bodies on their terms. 'I hate wearing bras. They're extremely uncomfortable and restrictive,' Vatsala, 25, told 'That said, I do think they're sometimes necessary, especially for back support.' For Garima Johar, the relationship is more complex. 'Bras are empowering, especially as someone with a fuller bust,' she said. According to her, the right bra gives structure to her outfit and boosts her confidence. 'A well-fitted bra shapes my silhouette. It makes me feel put together –– even sexy,' she admitted, adding, 'But underwires can be awful, and comfort is hard to find.' At home, however, it's another story. 'I go braless most of the time since I work remotely. It's liberating to be free of straps and underbands when I don't have to wear them,' said Johar. Shruthi, 32, expressed her dislike for the garment. 'Bras are quite uncomfortable, especially for heavier chests. The straps dig into the shoulders and cause pain. But they're also necessary when you're active because they provide support and help prevent discomfort during movement,' she said. According to Pooja Vaidya, vice president, product development at SOIE, a women's innerwear brand, most women wear the wrong size — 'usually too-loose bands and too-small cups.' She said, 'It's not their fault. Most of us were never taught how to fit ourselves properly. And many women continue wearing the same size for years, despite body changes.' 'Growing up without a mom and being raised by my grandmother – who never wore a bra herself – I struggled to figure out the right bra size and material,' said Shruthi, mentioning that shopping for one felt intimidating and overwhelming. 'I was also very active in sports, but because I wasn't wearing the right size or fabric, I ended up with a jogger's nipples, which caused bleeding and a lot of pain,' she said. Bharti, on the other hand, was luckier. 'There's a woman in Gurugram who runs a bra store. She helped me find my correct size, and I still go to her whenever I need a new one,' she said. Garima's experience was different. Growing up, no one really sat her down to explain how to find the right size. 'Even today, I feel awkward buying bras in physical stores. Online shopping gives me more privacy and options, and I find that much easier,' she said. Dr Kekin Gala, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Narayana Health SRCC Hospital, Mumbai, told 'Wearing the wrong bra size can lead to poor posture, neck and shoulder pain. A bra that's too tight can cause skin irritation and even breathing difficulties. Bharti admitted to feeling societal pressure to wear bras in public. 'Living in a small town in Haryana, it's not acceptable to go braless. I don't let it affect me much, but if I have to open the door for a delivery, I quickly change into something 'decent',' she said. For Shruthi, the stigma around bras was more about things like the straps showing and making sure it stayed hidden entirely under the clothes. 'A lot of the stigma was so normalised that I didn't even recognise it as a stigma.' Johar recalled how the stigma was reinforced in her own home. 'My mother would openly pack my brother's vests for holidays, but when it came to bras and panties, she'd lower her voice and call them 'UGs.' It was always hush-hush,' she said. These experiences aren't limited to a few – they echo the stories of countless women across India. When it comes to wearing a bra, there's been much debate about whether it affects hormonal health, breast development, or menstrual discomfort. Questions also arise about whether certain phases in a woman's life — such as pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause — make bra support more essential. Dr Rahul Manchanda, honorary senior consultant, endoscopic gynaecology at PSRI Hospital, said no: 'There is no evidence that bras affect hormones, breast growth, or menstrual pain. These are governed by internal factors like hormones, genetics, and lifestyle.' He also said that during pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause, many women do opt for softer, more supportive bras due to tenderness or sensitivity, but it's a comfort-based choice. A common concern among many women is sagging of the breasts if they don't wear bras regularly. Dr Gala clarified: 'Scientifically, bras are not necessary to prevent sagging. Sagging is largely influenced by genetics, skin elasticity, and ageing, not by wearing or not wearing a bra.' However, he also said that when it comes to back pain, especially for those with larger breasts, 'wearing a bra can provide support and reduce strain on the back and shoulders.' A post shared by Remedy Blog (@remedyblog) Dr Mandeep Singh, chief oncologist at Art of Healing Cancer, said, 'There is no scientific or clinical evidence to support the claim that wearing or not wearing a bra increases the risk of breast cancer. This has been a common myth, but large studies, including those by reputable cancer research organisations, have found no link between bra usage and breast cancer development.' The decision to wear a bra should depend on personal comfort and the activity involved, according to Dr Singh. 'During exercise, especially high-impact activities like running or aerobics, a well-fitted sports bra can minimise breast movement, reduce discomfort, and prevent strain on the ligaments. While sleeping, wearing a bra is not medically necessary, but some women may choose a soft, non-restrictive bra for comfort especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It's important to avoid tight, underwired bras during sleep, as they may cause pressure or skin issues over time,' he said. 'I'll admit, the industry used to prioritise aesthetics over comfort. But that's shifting. Today, more brands are listening to real women and designing for real bodies. Comfort, inclusivity, softness, flexibility — they're no longer afterthoughts,' Vaidya said. The process of this, according to her, involves listening to real feedback from real wearers. For those who prefer light or no support, it's about soft, breathable fabrics and stretch that moves with the wearer. Despite the growing comfort of ditching the bra at home, many women still feel compelled to wear one in public or during workouts — whether for support, confidence, or social norms. If you're still in a team bra – whether for public wear or exercise – fit matters. Vaidya provides a comprehensive step-by-step guide to finding a bra that fits you perfectly:
Indian Express
2 days ago
- Indian Express
Ayushmann Khurrana on defying Bollywood hero stereotypes, managing stress, and his take on sustainability: ‘Growing up in a middle-class household…'
From anchoring on radio and reality TV to becoming one of India's most unconventional leading actors, Ayushmann Khurrana has redefined what it means to be a Bollywood star. With hits like Vicky Donor, Article 15, Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, Andhadhun, Badhaai Do, and more, the National Award-winning actor, singer, and poet has consistently chosen scripts that challenge the norm, be it tackling taboos around masculinity, caste, sexuality, or social stigma. 'I'm constantly on the lookout for characters who are vulnerable, real, and flawed, who rise up to do something extraordinary,' said Khurrana. In an exclusive interview with the ahead of World Environment Day 2025, Khurrana opens up about the instincts that drive his storytelling, the values shaped by his middle-class upbringing, and how sustainable living, both on and off screen, guides his everyday choices. Edited excerpts below: A post shared by Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) Ayushmann Khurrana: Evolution. Every phase has shaped me. It taught me to take risks – half of my most successful films were with debutant directors. I love what I do, and I'm grateful for the opportunities. Each new project brings fresh energy. I seek out characters who are flawed, vulnerable, and yet manage to do something meaningful. My choices might not fit the conventional image of a Bollywood star, but they resonate with the audience. My journey has been that of a disruptor A post shared by Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) Ayushmann Khurrana: It's definitely a mix; instinct leads the way. I am drawn to scripts that unsettle me and push me out of my comfort zone. My philosophy is simple: I want to tell stories that matter, that reflect society's blind spots, and start relevant conversations. So yes, instinct brings me to the door, but my beliefs ensure I walk through it every time. Q3. Has mindful living shaped how you approach food, from indulgence to something more intentional? Ayushmann Khurrana: Absolutely. I've shifted from eating just for taste to eating for well-being. I still relish my sweet dishes, like a scoop of kulfi, but I make room for those treats rather than having them by default. Most meals now centre around whole grains, fresh seasonal produce, and simple home-cooked recipes. Mindful eating for me means tasting each bite, checking in with my body's needs, and choosing ingredients that fuel both body and soul. Q4. Sustainability is becoming central to how we live. Have you made any conscious changes – at home, in your wardrobe, or daily habits – that reflect this shift? Ayushmann Khurrana: Definitely. A lot of these values were instilled in me early on. Growing up in a middle-class household taught me to respect resources: never waste food, water, or electricity. Those lessons became a mindset, a way of life, and helped in understanding the impact of our actions on the planet. Today, I make small but consistent efforts – waste segregation, conserving water, switching off lights and devices not in use. These may seem minor, but collectively, they form the foundation of a healthier planet. I believe that when we live with intention and honour the resources around us, we nurture it for generations to come. Q5. If you could inspire your audience to adopt one conscious habit, what would it be, and why? Ayushmann Khurrana: Sustainability is not just a buzzword for me. I believe in making mindful choices that benefit the environment and, by extension, elevate the quality of our daily lives. I'd say start your day with a 10-minute digital detox. No phones, no screens—just reconnect with yourself. Also, avoid single-use items, whether it's tissues, paper plates, or disposable makeup wipes. These small changes are easy to adopt and can have a big impact on the planet. Q. With such a packed schedule, what helps you manage stress? Are there rituals that keep you mentally grounded? Ayushmann Khurrana: There are a few non-negotiables for me: I start the day with yoga and meditation, and then plug into music or poetry. I barely scroll on my phone as a 'break' – that is just more noise. Instead, I walk barefoot on the grass, do simple stretches, or sometimes sit quietly with a glass of Signature Packaged Drinking Water and watch the sunset. Those tiny rituals reset my headspace. Q. What's something you believe today that the younger you would've never expected but would be proud of? Ayushmann Khurrana: I have been silently manifesting the life and career I have today. I think the younger me dreamt big, even if he didn't know how it would all unfold. What he didn't expect was the courage I'd find to take risks and embrace failure. As an actor, I consciously chose to do films not set in formulas. Every film I said yes to came from a place of conviction, both from the makers and me. The subjects were not only promising but also had the potential to be thought-provoking around important societal issues that are usually not addressed. That these stories resonated with audiences is something my younger self would be very proud of. Cherry Gupta is an Assistant Manager - Content at The Indian Express. She is responsible for crafting compelling narratives, uncovering the latest news and developments, and driving engaging content based on data and trends to boost website traffic and audience engagement. One can connect with her on LinkedIn or by mail at ... Read More
Indian Express
3 days ago
- Indian Express
Aditya Roy Kapur says he doesn't understand ‘situationship', calls himself ‘old school' as he lists out red flag behaviour: ‘Someone who has a prison record'
Anurag Basu directed Metro In Dino's trailer was released in Mumbai on Wednesday. At the film's grand trailer launch event in Mumbai, the actors opened up about the lessons they have learnt from love. Aditya Roy Kapur shared his take on terms used to describe relationships, and Sara Ali Khan also shared that she does not believe in things like 'situationships.' Aditya and Sara shared their take on terms like situationship, benching, breadcrumbing. Aditya said, 'I don't even understand what the term situationship means, I am old school like that.' Sara added, 'To each their own, but I don't believe in situationship or any others.' Aditya also spoke on red flags and green flags in a relationship and said, 'For me, a red flag would be someone who has gotten a prison record. If they land up in your hall with suitcases, it might be a problem. And someone being kind is a green flag for me. That is important because if you are planning to see someone for a long time and end up being in all kinds of situations, but if they are kind its a green flag.' Fatima Sana Shaikh joked and told SCREEN, 'Bohot dard diye hai pyaar ne. (Love has given too much pain.)' Konkona Sensharma added, 'You have to be prepared for an element of risk. Life is uncertain, you have to embrace it. It's just like the box office.' Sara Ali Khan added, 'Sometimes, I struggle with going with flow, and like Konkona ma'am said, you have to just go in blind and hope for the best.' Sharing her take on love, Neena Gupta added, 'I have grown quite old, still I don't seem to know what love is. The only kind of love I know is between a parent and child.' Director Anurag Basu remembered late actor Irrfan Khan and singer KK during the event. He said, 'The whole film is, in fact, a tribute to both KK and Irrfan. We all miss them. I was just telling Bhushanji today that it was KK who beautifully complimented Pritam's compositions. KK has sung in all my movies, so obviously I miss him.' Metro In Dino also stars Pankaj Tripathi, Anupam Kher, and Ali Fazal in lead roles. The film is slated to release on July 4. Nawaz Kochra is an enthusiastic entertainment journalistic for the last 9 years, he has been a known face and successfully worked with some big publications. At Nawaz majorly covers TV and OTT and also does video interviews. Having the best conversations with celebrities is what Nawaz loves. ... Read More
