Dino Morea opens up about staying fit at 49, playing a quirky character called Salad in The Royals, and why being good-looking still matters in a visual world
Komal RJ Panchal (MID-DAY; June 11, 2025)
He was once the heartthrob of an entire generation, fondly dubbed Bollywood’s chocolate boy. Now, Dino Morea is back on screen as Salad — yes, Salad — in a vibrant web series that blends style, sass, and serious acting chops. But don’t be fooled by the quirky name. Short for Salahuddin, Salad may be a side dish for now, but he’s setting the stage to become a principal character in season two.
In this free-flowing chat, the actor opens up about making a strong impact in a limited role, his passion for fitness, why appearance still matters in showbiz, and how he’s maintained that famously enviable physique — all while keeping things light, fun and absolutely real. Here’s Dino, unfiltered.
So, let’s start with the obvious question — your character is called Salad in The Royals. Fans think you could easily be dessert!
(Laughs) That’s a great question. Honestly, I would’ve loved to be dessert! But yes, the name — Salad — is actually short for Salahuddin. So they just went with ‘Salad’. And I guess, appetiser, setting things up for the next season.
You looked fantastic on screen — and not just physically, your character brought so much energy. But when you’re part of a breezy show where everyone looks great, what’s your takeaway as an actor?
Thank you for saying that. I did the show because I found the character really interesting, especially how he has been written for season two. In season one, he appears in maybe three episodes. But I loved the flamboyance, the quirkiness and the madness. It was short, but I wanted to make an impact — and I think I did. And yes, I believe the character has great scope if developed well in the next season.
You’ve carried the ‘chocolate boy’ tag for years. Now, at 49, you’re still turning heads. What’s the secret?
Firstly, thank you. That’s kind. I’ve always taken care of myself, even as a child playing lots of sport. As I got older, I realised how important health really is. We’re in a visual medium — acting isn’t just about performance, appearance matters too. I make sure I look after myself. Fitness, fun, laughter — that’s my mantra.
What’s your fitness routine like? And what advice would you give to someone starting at 49 or 50?
The most important thing is to start. Even if that’s just walking. Then, gradually move to light jogging, resistance training and weights. As we age, our muscle mass reduces, testosterone levels drop, joints weaken, so resistance work is vital. Therabands, push-ups, pull-ups, squats, all help. No gym? No problem. Do it at home. Just begin.
Can you shed light on your diet? How do you manage food, especially when it’s an everyday thing?
I stick to home-cooked food mostly. Fresh vegetables, good oil, fruits. Avoid processed food. Sugar? I call it poison, avoid it. Alcohol and aerated drinks too. I do binge sometimes on pani puri, sev puri, gulab jamun, all of it! But in moderation. And I balance it with exercise. You can indulge, but you have to pay for it, with effort.
Social media can mess with people’s self-esteem. what’s you message for people struggling with body image or chasing shortcuts?
There are no shortcuts to good health. No growth hormone, no instant fixes. It’s a process. Your journey is yours alone. Social media isn’t real. You’re not racing against anyone else, it’s just you versus you. Exercise, eat well, and watch your body change naturally. It’ll make you happy. Don’t do it for validation, do it for yourself.
Missing workouts?
“I have off days! I sometimes skip workouts. I sometimes binge. But I make up for it. Life is about balance. Soul food is important too. Eat what makes you smile, then get back to routine. And once you start, once the dopamine hits, you won’t feel like stopping. It’s addictive in the best way,” says Morea.