The dedication of some Bollywood actors to their craft goes beyond memorizing lines and hitting marks. Some immerse themselves so deeply into their roles that they adopt the lifestyle, mindset, and even the physical appearance of their characters. This commitment, often involving periods of intense isolation, is a hallmark of method acting, a technique used by actors to create authentic and compelling performances.

Method acting, which originated from the teachings of Konstantin Stanislavski, encourages actors to draw upon their own personal experiences and emotions to connect with their characters. Some actors take it a step further, living as their characters even when the cameras aren't rolling. This can involve significant lifestyle changes, such as altering their diet, losing or gaining weight, isolating themselves from others, and delving into the character's emotional and psychological states.

One recent example of an actor employing these techniques is Kartik Aaryan, for his role in the psychological thriller Freddy. To portray a socially awkward dentist with a dark past, Aaryan reportedly gained 14 kg, spent time observing a dentist at work to understand the nuances of the profession, and lived in isolation. This transformation, both physical and mental, allowed him to step away from his established romantic and comedic image and deliver a performance that was appreciated by critics.

Ranveer Singh is another Bollywood actor known for his intense commitment to method acting. For his portrayal of Alauddin Khilji in Padmaavat, Singh isolated himself, maintained a rigorous physical regimen, and explored the character's menacing mannerisms. His immersion was so complete that he reportedly needed therapy after filming to disconnect from the character's darkness.

Aamir Khan, often called a "perfectionist," is known to ensure every aspect of his character is correct. For Dangal, Khan gained nearly thirty kilograms to authentically portray Mahavir Singh Phogat. He then shed the weight to play the younger scenes. His dedication to both the physical and psychological demands of the role highlighted the intensity of method acting, resulting in a performance deeply rooted in realism.

Shahid Kapoor, in Haider, shaved his head and immersed himself in the Kashmiri winter, channeling the emotional chaos of Hamlet. He lived within the turmoil of grief, madness, and identity, delivering a performance layered with vulnerability. Nawazuddin Siddiqui prepared for Manjhi: The Mountain Man by living in the same village as Dashrath Manjhi. His gritty, sun-scorched performance came from dirt, sweat, and unfiltered immersion.

Vidya Balan gained weight and transformed her body language for The Dirty Picture, embodying Silk Smitha's flamboyance. She embraced vulnerability and glamour equally, shedding vanity for realism.

While method acting can lead to powerful performances, it also carries potential risks. Actors may experience emotional fatigue or psychological distress from dredging up suppressed emotions or living in the headspace of a troubled character. The line between the actor's identity and the character's can blur, requiring a conscious effort to de-role after filming is complete.

Despite the challenges, method acting remains a popular technique among Bollywood actors seeking to deliver unforgettable and authentic performances. By embracing isolation and immersing themselves in their characters' worlds, these actors demonstrate a commitment to their craft that elevates their performances and captivates audiences.