Bollywood star Kareena Kapoor has completed 25 illustrious years in the Indian film industry, a milestone that reflects not only her talent but also her ability to adapt and thrive in a notoriously male-dominated space. In a candid interview with the Times of India, Kareena opened up about the challenges female actors face in Bollywood, where sustaining a career is tougher than the initial rise to fame.
Reinventing in a Male-Dominated Industry
Kareena Kapoor, who debuted at the age of 19 in JP Dutta’s Refugee, has been a part of some of Bollywood’s most iconic films. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “At 17-18, it was all about wanting to be in every film. If you sustain for a decade, it's about reinvention, which is scary in an industry which is male-dominated.” Kareena’s words highlight how longevity in the film industry requires more than just staying relevant—it requires constant evolution.
Kareena’s career has been marked by her ability to take on diverse roles, setting her apart in an industry that often sidelines women after a certain age or success level. "Over the years, apart from me, there have been other brave actresses too who have taken big strides," she noted, acknowledging the slow but steady change in Bollywood, where female actors are finally getting the recognition they deserve.
Leaving a Legacy Beyond Successful Films
For Kareena, the journey is no longer about signing as many films as possible but about leaving a lasting legacy. “Every five years, I ask myself, what new can I do now? It’s not just about being a part of successful films but leaving behind a legacy,” she explained. This introspection has led her to take on a variety of challenging roles in films like Chameli, Omkara, and Heroine, which showcased her range as an actor.
Kareena credits her famous Kapoor family for inspiring her, but also for pushing her to make her own mark. “I come from a family where I have been challenged because they all are such amazing actors, but I want to leave my mark somewhere.” With each passing decade, Kareena has found herself competing not only with her contemporaries but with new faces in the industry. “Every 10 years, there is someone new, so how am I going to last?” This constant evolution and her desire to stay ahead have been instrumental in her success.
Making Bold Choices to Sustain Herself
The key to Kareena’s sustained success is her varied film choices. From mainstream blockbusters to unconventional roles, she has constantly reinvented herself to remain relevant. “Sustaining yourself is tougher, so I like to make varied choices,” she explained, citing her recent projects like The Buckingham Murders, Singham Again, Crew, and Jaane Jaan. The latter, which premiered on a streaming platform, showcased Kareena’s willingness to explore new avenues of storytelling. “I feel it would have done great on the big screen, too,” she said, expressing her belief in the film’s potential.
Kareena Kapoor’s Acting Career: A Versatile Journey
Kareena’s journey from her debut in 2000 to her current status as one of Bollywood’s most respected actors has been a versatile one. Some of her most memorable performances include Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Yuva, Jab We Met, Tashan, 3 Idiots, and Good Newwz. Whether it’s playing the vivacious Geet in Jab We Met or a complex character like Dolly in Omkara, Kareena has proven her ability to handle a range of roles.
Her decision to balance mainstream commercial films like Singham Returns with more offbeat projects like The Buckingham Murders shows her ability to navigate different genres with ease. She continues to evolve with the times, taking on roles that challenge her creatively and keep audiences engaged.
What’s Next for Kareena?
Looking ahead, Kareena is set to star in Rohit Shetty’s much-anticipated action-thriller Singham Again. The film, set to release on November 1, 2024, is part of Shetty’s hit cop universe and features an ensemble cast that includes Ajay Devgn, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and Tiger Shroff. With Kareena back in an action-packed role, fans can expect to see her take on yet another dynamic character.
As she looks forward to the next phase of her career, Kareena Kapoor remains a symbol of resilience, versatility, and success in an industry that continues to evolve. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many young actors, especially women, proving that with determination and reinvention, one can sustain and thrive in the ever-changing landscape of Bollywood.