X=Prem actress Shruti Das, who bagged the Best Debut Actor (Female) award at the Filmfare Awards Bangla 2023, confessed to us that she can’t swim. But that didn’t stop her from doing an exclusive pool shoot with us and share her health, beauty and fashion mantras for summer. “I’m enjoying this pool shoot with Calcutta Times so much that now, I’m hell-bent on learning to swim like a pro,” an excited Shruti told us. Excerpts from the chat:
Are you a pool person? What’s your favourite kind of swimwear?
Unfortunately, I can’t swim, but I do enjoy lounging by the pool with friends. But I’m planning to take swimming lessons. As for swimwear, I usually opt for a one-piece. I do wear bikinis or tankinis occasionally, but find a one-piece comfortable and fuss-free, which is my mantra for most clothing options.
Tell us about your summer workout routine.
I stay in Mumbai most of the time, where it’s summer throughout the year. So, my workout routine doesn’t really change. But yes, I do believe in staying active all year round, as it keeps me physically and mentally healthy. As for the workout, I go with the flow and try to listen to what my body tells me to do. I’m also big on yoga and take wellness more seriously than body shape or size. Fitness for me is a way of life, not a seasonal pursuit. Do you follow any special diet plan?
In summer, I believe hydration is the key, so I take lots of fruits, fluids and foods that keep the system cool. I like to indulge in seasonal fruits and veggies. There’s a reason why a certain thing grows in a certain weather, so one must take advantage of that. Also, an early and light dinner helps. I avoid eating oily and fried food in general.
What kind of outfits do you prefer in summer?
Comfort comes first for me, so I prefer loose, relaxed silhouettes and fabrics like cotton and linen. I’m also a big fan of oversized clothing. I think if done right, oversized looks really cool (and you also feel cool in it). If in Kolkata, I love rummaging through my mother’s wardrobe for cotton saris. If not, it’s flowy dresses and oversized T-shirts.
How do you keep yourself summer safe?
I have a three-pronged approach — high SPF sunscreen, hydration, and meditation. Summer means a lot of sunlight and heat, so one needs to stay cool, and calm from within.
What’s your favourite summer holiday destination?
The hills, always the hills.

Shruti’s summer beauty & hair tips
Keep it simple — eat clean, and it will show in your skin and hair
If possible, visit a good dermatologist to understand what your skin and hair need
Keep your skin clean and hydrated
Use lots of high SPF sunscreen
Keep make-up minimal — moisturiser, sunscreen, a bit of lip tint, and kajal
Oil, shampoo and condition your hair regularly

Pix: Tathagata Ghosh
Makeup and hair: Smita Das and Babai Ganguly
Styling: Kiara Sen
Location: Club Verde

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