Milind Soman helps six smokers quit smoking

The actor-model-marathoner hosts a new reality TV show that inspires smokers to give up their addiction
Milind Soman
Milind Soman

Earlier this year, one of India's most good looking men, Milind Soman made the country proud by completing the Ironman Triathlon in Zurich. The 5' 9", 53-year-old hunk is an inspiration for many, both men and women. Milind who was a national level swimmer and later became a model had taken to chain smoking at a point in his life. But in the last couple of years, the actor-model turned runner, and has been a regular at several long-distance running events. He has reversed his addiction to smoking to addiction to healthy living and fitness. In an attempt to inspire others, particularly smokers to quit their habit, Milind agreed to hosting a new reality TV show titled 'I Can You Can'.

The show follows six smokers, led by Milind, who trek and climb up 17,600 feet to the Everest Base Camp. The smokers challenge themselves, taking the metaphorical path that's tougher than their trek, that of quitting smoking completely and capturing the Everest within their minds. At every point, Milind inspires them to give their best shot. In a candid interview he tells Indulge more about the journey and the show.

What prompted you to agree to host this show? 

When it was suggested to me that the show was about a trek to the Everest Base Camp, I was immediately excited. I love being outdoors, I love being in the mountains and I was told that the concept was - an anti smoking campaign and a journey of six people. I thought it was even more interesting because I don’t normally get to do something like this and I thought sharing this journey would be inspiring even for me to see how the six people dealt with challenges they faced and how they overcame them. And also, to be a part of the team, encouraging them and motivating them was also a learning for me. We thought the Himalayas were the best location which would impact the messaging and weave a beautiful adventure series. 

Did the team hit it off well with each other right from the start? 

Yes! They are wonderful people with great stories. They were really excited and committed to being there and completing this expedition.

How would you define your role as the host/leader? 

I would say, I was a kind of friend to the team who was traveling with them. I wasn’t much of a host, mentor or guide but more like a friend who was sharing their journey and sharing each other’s experiences. And it was beautiful experience to be there with such wonderful people. 

What all trails did you cross and how challenging was it? Any anecdotes?

The terrain was absolutely beautiful. The challenge was the altitude for everybody because it is something we are not used to - going above 15,000 feet where you always feel the lack of oxygen. But everybody bonded very well, they acclimatized well and took the challenge up and were able to do what they were supposed to do. We had very good guides who explained how we had to do certain things and protect ourselves. Everybody was really touched by the stories of the Sherpa who were with us. Their stories are very inspiring, they work so hard and getting to know them was a wonderful experience.
Another heart touching incident was when we met people affected by the earthquake who lost their homes. It was really inspiring to see how they have worked so hard to rebuild their lives. 

How transformational has this show been for you and the contestants? 

It is a little difficult for me to put the experience in words for myself. Though the contestants have said that it was a life changing experience and I wouldn’t do justice with words explaining their experience. Personally, for me everyday was really inspiring. There are certain things that you see and they affect you. It is really difficult to put it in words but it all comes out later on. And I think I have learnt more about life, relationships and about the world having been on this trek. 

You were a smoker at some point in your life. Were you at some level, able to relate to the participants' plight of giving up smoking? 

Till about 15 years ago I was a smoker and I used to smoke about 30 cigarettes a day. I am very aware how mentally, physically and emotionally challenging it is to give it up. But that is something one has to endure to be able to come out stronger and lead a better life. The show is not about them giving up smoking but being aware and trying to get closer to the goal. But I relate to every moment of what the contestants went through. 

I Can You Can airs every Sunday at 7 pm on National Geographic and is available on viu.com

ayeshatabassum@newindianexpress.com
@aishatax

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