How did you kick off the season?

I was shooting for my show 'Hum' and the first rain of the season is always special because of how the earth smells. This summer was scorching and we were awaiting some respite. However, I was shooting in Gujarat and had to return to Mumbai the same night, so I ended up getting stuck in traffic due to the rain. So I kicked off the season at shoot and in my car.

What food or drink do you indulge in during the monsoon?

Bhajiya and samosa with kadak chai.

What is your favourite place to visit in Mumbai during the monsoon?

Lonavala, which is not in the city but it's so close it feels like home. Other than that, any place next to the sea is beautiful.

Favourite rain song on your playlist?

'Afreen Afreen' by Pakistani Coke studio.

Favourite monsoon memory in Mumbai?

My daughter was born during the monsoon. When my wife Mahhi got labour pain, we were in Andheri and our hospital was in Breach Candy. There was a lot of traffic due to the rains and I drove on the wrong side to reach the hospital on time. I reached in record time which was also thanks to Mumbai police who understood the situation and let me go.

Favourite places to travel during the rains...

Besides Lonavala, I like Goa because it's less crowded during this time of the year.

Cafe or restaurant recommendations in the city...

Keibaa X All Saints at Mahalakshmi race course that has a nice outdoor area covered with mirrors from all sides. It's amazing to have lunch while watching the rain. 

Choice of outfits for the season...

Shorts and T-shorts are the best because I am in slippers most of the season.

The part you don't enjoy about the monsoon?

The traffic and water logging.

Memories...

During 26/7 when Mumbai was submegered, I was in Vashi and it was so difficult for me to reach Juhu.

Movies to binge watch while stuck at home...

Any new movies because I don't like to repeat films that I have already seen. I'm not a romantic movie fan though they go well with the rain.

Jay Bhanushali, is currently seen as prince Shivendra Barot in the show ‘Hum- Rahe Na Rahe Hum’

Tina Datta is seen as Surilii Ahluwalia.

Jay is popular having featured in shows like ‘Kasautii Zindagii Kay’ ‘Kayamath' ‘Nach Baliye 5’, ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi 7’, ‘Bigg Boss 15’, and many more.

‘Hum- Rahe Na Rahe Hum’ airs on Sony Entertainment Television.