It took two fiery Kapoor girls to break all the norms: Kareena Kapoor Khan

The Kapoor Clan: Films, family, feminism at India Today Conclave

Karisma Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan

”You’re used to grilling all the politicians Rajdeep, we’re ready for you today,” said Kareena Kapoor Khan, kicking off her session on a fiery note true to form. Moderator Rajdeep Sardesai began by remembering an image of the Kapoor family, and asked about the much debated issue of nepotism in the Hindi film industry. “It’s about talent. We may be anybody’s children or grandchildren, but once you’re on the silver screen, you are anyone. Anyone can criticize you,” said Karisma. Kareena added, “There are a lot of star children, if nepotism existed, they would all be number one.” She also used the example of Ranveer Singh to illustrate her point, claiming he’s “numero uno” thanks to sher energy and talent, even though he doesn’t have a superstar father from the film industry.

On the subject of the leading ladies from the first families retiring immediately after marriage, Kareena said, “It took two fiery Kapoor girls to break all the norms!” They both drew inspiration from the legacy of the family, regaling the audience with stories of how they would go visit their grandparents in Chembur every Sunday and drop in at RK Studios, only to be mesmirised by the sheer talent in the Kapoor khandaan. For Kareena, it all started with her obsession with Madhuri Dixit and Sridevi songs that she would perform in front of the mirror.

The two share a special bond – they’re protective of each other and never competing. And they also agree largely on the subject of motherhood and the ways in which it has impacted their lives. “Children are the most important in the world. Motherhood has made us more mature, more selfless,” said Karisma.

The sisters also believe that women need to speak out more. “It is a male dominated industry, it has been for generations,” said Karisma. The younger Kapoor joked that if they start a movement similar to #MeToo for Bollywood, Sardesai would have to back them. Ending on a high, Karisma took the audience down memory lane as she danced to Main Toh Raste Se Jaa Raha Tha. A hit of the 90s. Films in the 90s were made on instinct and passion,” she said. And we couldn’t agree more.

QUOTES

KAREENA KAPOOR KHAN

- It took two fiery Kapoor girls to break all the norms.

- I like bad boys and there’s nothing wrong with that. I met Saif at the right time in his life – he was ready to be under my thumb.

- I told Saif my son is going to be a fighter. Taimur means iron. He is my iron man.

- I see a natural spark in Alia, I like that.

- I’m the only one in the Pataudi family who isn’t a Rhodes scholar, but that’s ok I contribute in other ways.

KARISMA

- Films in the 90s were made on instinct and passion

- The masses must love you, that’s most important.

- We were grief stricken when we heard about Sridevi’s death. Stardom can be here today and gone tomorrow.

- It is a male dominated industry, it has been for generations.