men in the world". Although he was surprised and grateful, Hooda said he is not influenced by such labels; "I want people to know me for my body of work, than just my body ... Being sexy can always just be an added advantage, not the be-all and end-all for an actor". During an interview with Mid-Day, he said during his early years in the industry, people saw him as an "explosive Jat boy" who had a calculated approach to his work. He said, "Now, I'm a bit more careful. I've changed the way I express myself". Hooda lived in a hostel from a young age; he said, "I've always had a good time, it's something that gives me my spirit and fuels my spirit as well. Now, I want my parents to live with me, I want to enjoy their company more." He said he had a good relationship with his parents, who live in Faridabad, and that their openness to everything has helped him in life. He considers Naseeruddin Shah to be his "mentor, friend and confidant", saying, "He's an inspiration and somebody who has helped nurture me as an actor not necessarily my career but my craft. He's also the one who opened my eyes to the world of acting." Hooda had a relationship with former Miss Universe and actress Sushmita Sen from 2004 to 2006. He later said ending their relationship changed his career; "The break-up was the best thing that happened to me and I realised that I gave it too much time in my life. It freed my energy to do things for myself." Hooda owns a stray dog named Candy. Filmography Films As actor As director Television Accolades See also List of Indian film actors References External links 1976 births Delhi Public School alumni Indian male film actors Indian male voice actors Indian taxi drivers Living people Male actors in Hindi cinema Male actors from Haryana People from Rohtak