Exclusive: ‘I prefer to do one film at a time’ - Kareena Kapoor Khan on Veere Di Wedding and more

Apart from her drop-dead gorgeous looks, the other thing that instantly strikes you about Kareena Kapoor Khan is her candid demeanour. Whether she is talking about movies or motherhood, she isn’t pretentious. Last seen in Udta Punjab (2016), the Bollywood superstar took a maternity break for her son, Taimur, who was born on December 20, 2016. Eight months later, she was back on the sets of Veere Di Wedding, which releases on June 1.

We meet the radiant fourth-generation actor of B-Town’s first film family while she is in the midst of promotions. Excerpts...

You seem to be taking up fewer films after marriage. Are you being more selective?

The kind of movies I’m choosing now are dramatically different from each other like Ki & Ka, Udta Punjab and Veere Di Wedding. It’s just the way I want to and prefer to work. I want to do one film at a time. Saif (Ali Khan) and I are trying to maintain a work-life balance with Taimur. When he’s working, I need to be at home to take care of Taimur and when I’m working, he tries to be around.

Why did you choose to do Veere Di Wedding?

So far, you’ve seen me either with a superstar or in a big-ticket entertainer. It’s quite different than what I’ve done earlier. It revolves around four girls and the subject as well as the casting are fresh. The script and language is young and something that you haven’t seen before. Ever since I read the script, I wanted to be a part of it. I’m glad that Rhea (Kapoor, producer) decided to make this film.

Was your decision to do this movie influenced by the fact that the story revolves around your character, Veere’s wedding?

I think Veere stands for my bro or friend’s wedding. Everyone has their moment. This is a story about four friends — the first one is tying the knot, the second one is going through a divorce, the other is commitment phobic and the fourth one is married but is facing issues. So, it’s about four women in different stages of love and marriage. And that’s the beauty of it.

It has been tagged ‘Not A Chick Flick’. According to you, what is a chick flick?

It’s not a typical chick flick with costumes and songs. It’s got soul and is about four girls coming together. It’s entertaining and the way they talk to each other is quite real. I guess that’s the reason Rhea didn’t want to call it a chick flick. It isn’t anything close to Sex and The City.

The trailer and songs indicate that all of you had a blast during filming. Was it the most fun shoot you had?

Every film has its own set-up, its own journey. I’ve known Sonam and Rhea for a long time. Sometimes, Taimur also accompanied me to the shoot. It was comfortable as I’ve known Anilji (Kapoor) like forever. So, it was like home turf.

You’ve been in the industry for about 18 years and Sonam Kapoor since 11 years. So, it’s surprising that no one thought of casting both of you earlier.

I think the story has to have that particular requirement. Finally, the four of us (Sonam, Swara Bhasker, Shikha Talsania and me) had to be a part of this film. There are four different characters and actors; so that’s why the chemistry is also working.

The dialogues have got reactions from both sides of the spectrum, besides becoming a debatable point with the CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification). Did you anticipate that?

When I read the script, I didn’t think it would get these kind of reactions. Normal people, including girls, talk like this. That’s the relatability. Perhaps, that’s why it has got strong reactions. When I saw the trailer, I knew people would like it. It’s got the flavour of what the youth want today.

What’s next after Veere Di Wedding?

I have liked a script. It will be announced soon.

Have you ever thought of stepping behind the camera to produce a film, if not direct one?

Never. I’m an actor and I can’t think of anything else.

What about a web series?

We are used to watching content on international OTTs (Over the top media services), like The Crown and some other amazing shows. Saif is doing Sacred Games which has been shot on an international scale. We’ve probably not seen an Indian show made on that level. Some of the biggest Hollywood stars, like Benedict Cumberbatch and Tom Hiddleston among many others are doing great roles on that platform. If it’s a great part, why not. Let’s see...

Taimur has become an internet sensation and people can’t stop getting enough of him.

We just want him to lead as normal a life as possible. That’s the most important thing for him. I’d like the paparazzi to not shoot pictures of him every moment. I don’t want his life to be documented. He is only 17 months old, once or twice is enough, but not the constant badgering.

So, in what aspects has he taken after you and in which things he’s unlike you?

He’s still so small. I hope he is bright and intelligent as his father. Right now, he’s a perfect mix of both of us. I want him to be a happy and a good person. Hopefully, over the years, his personality will develop into that.

Is Saif a hands-on father?

Saif is quite amazing, he is so hands-on and loving. He is someone who will guide Taimur in the right way. He is experienced enough to tell me if I’m going wrong. I’m sure there will be those times, too. It’s a journey that has just begun (smiles).