Big Bang Theory Actor ON How To Stop Obsessing About The Future And Programming Your Mind For Peace | Summary and Q&A

Transcript

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Summary

In this video, Kunal Nayyar, best known for his role as Rajesh on "The Big Bang Theory," shares his journey as an actor and his philosophy on life. He talks about growing up in Delhi and how the sense of community and connection shaped him. Kunal also opens up about his battle with anxiety and how he overcame it. He emphasizes the importance of looking within, finding the truth in the moment, and living a simple and peaceful life.

Questions & Answers

Q: When did Kunal last play cricket?

Kunal last played cricket during his visit to India after the "Big Bang Theory" ended. He bought a cricket bat and played with his cousin, which brought back wonderful memories.

Q: What was Kunal's job when he first moved to the U.S?

Kunal worked as a university housekeeper in Oregon when he first moved to the U.S. He took the job because the minimum wage was higher there, and he didn't think too much about it at the time.

Q: What were some interesting experiences Kunal had as a university housekeeper?

Kunal recalls cleaning out dormitories, where he found disgusting things in the trash compactor. He also cleaned out offices of professors who had passed away, which was an interesting experience. One of the most fun experiences was washing the church windows using a power washer.

Q: Did Kunal face any challenges transitioning from the intense experiences of acting back to everyday life?

Yes, Kunal found it challenging to transition from the intense experiences of acting back to everyday life. He used to go out for a drink or wind down at a bar to cope, but he realized it wasn't a healthy way of dealing with it. Eventually, he learned to face his anxiety and panic attacks head-on.

Q: What was life like for Kunal growing up in Delhi?

Growing up in Delhi, Kunal experienced the beauty of the familial and communal connections. The idea of family extended beyond just parents, and he grew up surrounded by cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends. There was always someone around, and the community was tight-knit. He also mentioned how death was openly discussed and experienced together as a community.

Q: Did Kunal always want to be an actor?

Yes, Kunal always had a passion for acting. From a young age, he enjoyed being in front of an audience and sought to find the truth in his performances. He became addicted to the experience of finding the truth in the moment, which led him to pursue a career in acting.

Q: How did Kunal free himself from his self-destructive patterns and find awakening?

Kunal realized he was running away from himself and had built a facade to hide behind. He started experiencing anxiety and panic attacks, which prompted him to seek help. He stopped running away and learned to face his anxiety. Through self-reflection and becoming self-aware, he began uncovering the layers of himself and finding freedom.

Q: How did Kunal find the balance between being ambitious and remaining grounded and present?

Kunal believes it starts with simplicity of intention. If someone enjoys acting, they can be ambitious about it, but the key is not attaching emotions or expectations to that ambition. He recommends doing what feels right in the moment and not getting caught up in societal definitions of success. It's about finding happiness and peace in the now, while still pursuing your passions.

Q: How does Kunal handle the never-ending cycle of obsession with what's next?

Kunal advises accepting and embracing the totality of one's life. Instead of constantly seeking the next thing, be present and fully immersed in the current moment. There's no need to scrub oneself clean of desires or attachments; it's about accepting all parts of oneself and finding peace within.

Q: What books or resources helped Kunal on his spiritual journey?

Kunal mentioned reading books like "The Secret," "The Four Agreements," "The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success," and "The Untethered Soul." He found Michael Singer's book particularly transformative in helping him understand the separation between his true self and his mind.

Takeaways

Kunal Nayyar's journey from anxiety to awakening teaches us the importance of looking within, finding the truth in the moment, and living a simple and peaceful life. He emphasizes the simplicity of intention, accepting the totality of one's life, and not getting caught up in societal definitions of success. By freeing oneself from self-destructive patterns and becoming self-aware, it's possible to find true freedom and live in the present moment.