When the queen arrives, she arrives in style! Veere Di Wedding marks her return on the big screen after a two year hiatus, but one never really felt like they were missing out on Kareena Kapoor Khan. The actress, who was last seen in Udta Punjab, was pretty much in the news throughout her pregnancy 'break'. From brand shoots to posing for magazine covers and attending launch events; Kareena made a strong statement by ditching long naps and joining millions of women across the globe, who are known to skilfully multi task, even if that means turning show stopper for designer Sabyasachi at Lakme Fashion Week, proudly flaunting a baby bump.

On a rather hot and sunny afternoon, we caught up with the actress. Looking fresh as ever, she stepped out of her vanity, dressed in a Polka Dot dress by Michael Kors. While the shutterbugs began to get the perfect picture, Bebo was rather unfazed. "Ghar jaldi jaana hain, Taimur is waiting," she quipped, requesting the paparazzi to hurry. Within minutes, she entered the studio and settled down for a quick chat! While excerpts from the interaction follow, I must share an interesting moment. Just before wrapping up the day's work, the actress stepped out in smart casuals. While Kareena was obliging fans with selfies and discussing the week's schedule with her manager, I walked past her with a smile. Our eyes met, and she smiled back. Within seconds, I heard her say, "So hot these days na! Always carry a bottle of water. It's essential to keep yourself hydrated all year round. Stay hydrated, okay!" I smiled (again) and thanked the actress. Amused, and quite taken aback. Reason? Well, I had forgotten to carry my bottle that day. Just a few minutes before this incident, I was checking with the team if there was any mineral water around. Unfortunately, there wasn't any, and I had to wait till the end to go out and buy one. So, Bebo's advice was definitely appreciated! Well, that's Kareena Kapoor Khan for you. We don't call her the 'Queen' for nothin'. And now, it's time we 'dive' into our chat with the stunning star:

Is there any personality trait in Kalindi that you could relate to?

Actually, Kalindi is very different from the person that I am. I am very practical, and I am sure of what I want or would like to do. People who know me will tell that I am very head strong. If I make a decision, then I will stick to it. That way, Kalindi is completely opposite.

At any point in life, did you develop cold feet while being in a relationship? Like your character - Kalindi in the film?

Not at all! Everyone knows that I have never been commitment phobic. Kalindi is a lot like that, but not me. I have always been very clear about my choices in life. Even generally, as a person, I am very clear about what I want to do. So, I've never really been in that kind of a situation.

We have seen some successful women centric films in the recent past, with many of them crossing the 100cr mark at the BO. Do you think people are more open to watching a woman centric film in the Indian industry today, compared to a few decades ago?

Of course! There have been a lot of women oriented films, with the female actor carrying the film on her shoulders, and they have successfully done it. Right from The Dirty Picture to Queen and now, Raazi; these films have done really well. I believe that if the film is good, and has the perfect script, then it doesn't matter whether it's a hero or a heroine leading it. If the film is made well, then the audience will surely support it!

A lot of people usually associate the Hindi film 'Heroine' to just be a glamorous addition to the cast? With powerful female characters dominating the scene, do you think that stereotype is finally breaking away?

Absolutely! Whether it is mainstream cinema or any other kind, ultimately what matters is your film. I know it's quite a task to constantly look perfect in front of the camera and maintain your hair, make up. But, all of that is secondary, especially when compared to your character and what you are doing in the film. It's important to take your job seriously, which we all do. 

During the filming of Veere... it was great to see you juggling multiple duties - that of an actor and mom. Did you face any challenges while maintaining that fine balance?

Not really. Perhaps, it was just the time factor. There are days when I want to spend all my time with Taimur. But, I think women know how to multi-task very well. Also, I am very happy that I have an excellent support system, and that's one of the main reasons why I can work and make time out for the family as well.

2018 will see many star kids make a splash in the industry. If you look back to the time when you debuted with Refugee, was there any pressure or baggage that came with being a 'Kapoor' kid?

I think that lasts only till your first film hits the screen. After that, all that you do - including the way you choose the scripts, films or even the way you lead your life - is your own.

Taimur has constantly been the apple of social media's eye, with videos and photos of him posted all over. Do you think all of it takes away from the little one's privacy?

Honestly, I don't know what to say! I just feel the media shouldn't be taking so many pictures all the time. He is still a little boy, and all of us are quite concerned. I do understand the media's point of view, so what can I do? (pauses) All I can do is request people to not do that. 

Will we see you do more films in the coming year, and would it be a conscious decision to limit your time on the sets?

Well, I did Veere... (Veere Di Wedding) right after Taimur's birth. But, I definitely want to spend more time with my baby, rather than a set. So, I've decided to do just one film a year.

Have you ever imagined a life without facing the camera?

Ummm.. I can imagine my life without it. Maybe, 20 - 30 years later. But, having said that, I would always want to work. At least, till the time I can. The thing is, I can't think of what I would be doing 30 years later, but hopefully, I will always work. Or let's put it this way - I will always try to keep working!

Are your excited to watch Kareena Kapoor Khan as Kalindi Puri in Veere Di Wedding?

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Love,

The Dancebee

I was around 8 years old when one of Dharma's most ambitious projects - Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, hit the screens. While the family drama kept me entertained, one girl left a strong impression with her amazing personality and care-free attitude. I was mesmerised by the fact that someone could pull off a character like Poo so flawlessly, without making it look too caricaturish. Other characters namely Kaurwaki, Sanjana, Chameli followed and needless to say, the actress went on to become one of my favourites. Not because of her beauty, nor the glamorous avatar (she wins brownie points for it anyway), but the sheer magic that she created, every time she appeared on screen. 

There is something  very charming about Kareena Kapoor Khan, who then went on to win many more hearts with her impeccable act as Geet in Jab We Met. Her sixteen year long journey in Bollywood has been a courageous one. The actress experimented with her roles, and created a benchmark that younger actresses could follow. Be it going size zero, taking up cameos in the form of dance numbers for fun or turning singer in Dev, she always took the unconventional route and preferred to follow her heart, instead of accepting trends that were often followed by her peers. Last week, I met the Begum for a chat at her office, just before her dinner time (she is very particular about food timings). She is one of the few people who can make even the most simple pair of jeans look glamorous. For someone who likes a heart-to-heart conversation over a WhatsApp message, Kareena still prefers to be old school and honestly, we love her for that! In a freewheeling chat, the actress discusses films, relationships and Ki & Ka, which hits the screens tomorrow.

The trailer of Ki & Ka, especially the intimate moments, gave rise to unnecessary controversies. How did you react to it?

We live in India. According to some people, everything in life is terminated once you are married. It's like you gotta change the way you breathe as well, as if you have sold your soul. But, that's not the case, right? I am an actor and my husband respects me for that. We are in 2016 and the concepts of our films are changing with time. If the two characters in a film are husband and wife, they have to be intimate with each other. There is no other way! I discussed the script and the requirements with my husband before signing the film. He was absolutely fine and said that if it is the requirement, you must go ahead and do it. In fact, he added that I have stood for a lot of things that go against the norm, which includes working after marriage. So, he has always wanted me to be the modern woman that I claim to be. People must not forget that I am an actor as well.

Image credit: Femina 2016

Ki & Ka is all about a relationship, and these days, the newspapers are filled with stories about relationships going kaput. Tales of separation and divorce. Personally, how do you look at such things?
For me, a relationship between two individuals is built over love, support and respect for each other. Ki & Ka shows how the woman accepts her man, despite knowing that he has no ambitions. Love knows no boundaries or calculations. Separations and break-ups happen in a very personal space. Nobody knows what actually happens behind the closed doors. That's how I look at it.

In the case of celebrities, do you think it is stardom that often takes a toll?
Not really. In my case, both Saif and I are actors. Both of us are busy with our respective projects. When I was shooting for Udta Punjab and Ki & Ka, he was not. Now that he has begun working on Rangoon, I am caught up with promotions. So, we often miss each other. But, relationship is all about making time for one another. You can't just make a statement and yell out - I don't have time for love! Women are multi-taskers and if one really wants to, you can always remove some time. Personally, I always try and make an effort to take sometime out to go see him. Sometimes, we both take some time off for a getaway. You have to work on things in a way that you get that little extra time for your loved ones.

Do you also think the fast paced lifestyle today has played a role in this?
More than that, I feel people are getting used to depending on all things digital. You get one million likes and folks go, Oh! I am so loved. I read stories where normal conversations, that could happen face to face, are taking place on Twitter. People are taking to Facebook to wish their loved ones on birthdays and anniversaries! How difficult is it to pick up the phone and wish someone?


So, it seems like you are unlikely to break your promise (that of never creating a social media account).
Obviously! I will never be on any social media platform. Why can't I just meet someone or talk to them over the phone? Or if I like someone in a film, I'll call them up or send them a note na. That's so much more personal and special. The only thing I like about Twitter is the fact that it can help spread awareness, especially during a time of crisis. But for conversations and using it as a tool to simply send out messages? Never. I think, I am still a little old school like that.

But, what about fans who look up to you and wish to connect with their favourite actress?
I like to connect with them through interviews, promotions among others. Also, it is not possible to answer millions of fans on social media. You will always end up disappointing someone. But, I am glad I have a strong and active fan club on social media called Kareena Online. They are almost like my army and are very possessive about me. I feel proud to be on Twitter and Instagram through them. With fans as protective as them, I know I am safe on social media. They will bajao anyone who writes anything against me (laughs). They will troll them.

You are now working with co-actors from the new lot. What do you have to say about their skills and the experience of working with them?
As far as Arjun is concerned, he is as experienced as any other senior actor in the industry. Perhaps, that is also because he is an industry kid and has grown up watching films. But, I feel all the young boys have great energy and acting skills, which is almost like a seasoned star. They are very conscious about everything that they do. They are all guns blazing, raring to go!

Image credit: Harper's Bazaar Bride

What was Saif's first reaction when he heard about the concept of this film?
He thought it was very cool. The very fact that Balki came up with a concept like this fascinated him. It's not a commercial blockbuster kind of a formula, with item songs and a huge ensemble cast. But, it has a concept from the heart, which will stand for something and be a nice film. So, that's why he encouraged me to do the film.

There is a lot of curiosity building up around your character in Udta Punjab. What is it all about?
It's a drug drama and I play a doctor. Udta Punjab stresses upon an important reality of Punjab - the drug busts that have been taking place. The film is more intense, gritty and dark, which is completely different from Ki & Ka. The latter is also real, but so much more quirky and fun. Udta Punjab is very dark and I am sure people will like the look once it is released.

Since you were shooting for the two films simultaneously, was it difficult to shift from a dark world to a quirky one the very next day?
In fact, I shot for three films from completely different genres - Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Udta Punjab and Ki & Ka, all back to back. As an actor, you have to give your best in each character and work it out as much as possible. For someone who loves cinema and acting, I absolutely enjoyed the experience!

Love,
Priya Adivarekar aka
The Dancebee