Main Apni Favourite Hoon”, an iconic line by Kareena Kapoor Khan 20 years ago, still resonates with the audiences today.
Kareena in conversation with Atika Farooqi
Atika: Tell us about your last family vacation?
Kareena: We went to Goa in December for my mother-in-law’s birthday. It was special, relaxed, and filled with love. Goa always brings a sense of calm, and I’ve shot many films there.
Atika: “Main apni favourite hoon” has become iconic. What does self-love mean to you today?
Kareena: That line has changed not just my career, but also my life. It’s a philosophy of self-love and self-care. When you love yourself, you can give love to others—your family, fans, and characters.
Atika: How has self-love shaped your journey?
Kareena: Loving myself has helped me stay confident and authentic. Women often face pressure to conform, but that line empowered many to embrace their identity.
Atika: If you had to define your personal brand in one line, what would it be?
Kareena: Unapologetically herself. Being authentic, evolving, and true has kept me going for over 25 years.
Atika: How do you balance a legendary family legacy and your own identity?
Kareena: I’ve been lucky to witness strong women like my mother and mother-in-law. I’ve tried to maintain my individuality while honoring that legacy.
Atika What are the key lessons for a long-lasting career in cinema?
Kareena: Talent is essential, but so is being smart with choices. Authenticity and resisting trends have kept me relevant. You need passion and a willingness to experiment.
Atika: What made you say yes to a bold role like in The Devotion of Suspect X?
Kareena: I was scared at first but wanted to challenge myself. Taking risks helps me grow, and I’m proud of doing something so different.
Atika: Was there a turning point in your life where your mindset shifted?
Kareena: Yes, time has been my biggest teacher. As I matured—from a girl to a woman, wife, and mother—I evolved emotionally and professionally.
Atika: How has your relationship with media evolved?
Kareena: I’ve always been honest, but now I prefer staying low-profile and focusing on my craft and family.
Atika: How important is family life in an actress’s journey?
Kareena: Very important. Respect is key in a relationship. Saif and I support each other’s work, balance time with kids, and never keep score on sacrifices.
Atika: Has the film industry evolved in the past five years?
Kareena: Yes. Audiences now value authenticity and strong storytelling. Brave choices matter more than box office numbers.
Atika: What’s your take on digital and regional cinema?
Kareena: It’s a great time for actors. I’m open to new languages and formats. Audiences today are open-minded, and that’s exciting.
Atika: What keeps your family brand so relatable and admired?
Kareena: It’s a mix of charm, authenticity, and strong values. Our public life is visible, but we try to remain grounded and connected.
Atika: Would you ever remake a Raj Kapoor film?
Kareena: Never. His work is timeless. We should preserve and respect those classics, not remake them.
Atika: A memory of Raj Kapoor?
Kareena: He loved language and always gave special mangoes to his grandchildren—but Karisma always got more! He adored her. It was sweet and funny.
Atika: What’s the art of convincing audiences you’re a new person each film?
Kareena: That’s our job. If I can’t transform, I shouldn’t be doing it. Reinvention is the core of good acting.
Atika: How did you defy the stereotype that actresses lose work after marriage or kids?
Kareena: That’s an outdated mindset. Like male professionals, women should thrive post-marriage. I’ve done some of my best work after becoming a mother.