Filmmaker Karan Johar interviewed two of his ‘favourite’ actors – Kareena Kapoor Khan and Alia Bhatt – for the first time during the Movie Mela held in Mumbai on Sunday, 13 October, just ahead of the much-awaited Jio MAMI Film Festival.
In a revealing conversation between the trio, Kareena called Alia “fearless” and the “best artiste” of her generation.
“There were many brave actors in the industry. And now we have spectacular actors in the industry. I would say that Alia is this generation’s best artiste. She is fearless. To take Udta Punjab was great.”Kareena Kapoor Khan, Actor
Alia, for her part, said that her journey as an actor began with Imtiaz Ali-directed Highway. She also added that she wanted to do a film in the comedy genre.
“I wanted to be as versatile as possible. It’s easier to make a good film but it’s difficult to make a hit film. I want to do Comedy which I have not done. I am hoping to do more films close to home.”Alia Bhatt, Actor
On Kalank, which had a dismal run in the box office, Alia said:
“I was really okay. I later thought about it, if you work really hard, it will pay off. Ranbir said that the hard work will also pay off later with other films.”Alia Bhatt, Actor
Has Stardom Changed? Kareena Answers
Speaking about stardom in today’s world, Kareena said that the idea of being a superstar does not exist anymore.
“I think the idea of being a superstar is no more. I feel people already know everything. I feel there isn’t as much fun. There was a lot more to say in interviews.”Kareena Kapoor Khan, Actor
However, Alia said that why create “mystery” that was “never there.”
Alia on Working With Her Father
“There are days when I think if I have managed to get the director -actor relationship. He is so clear. His energy transcends into all of us. I kept telling Pooja what if he wants to pass out at 1. At three he was up and running. I didn’t plan on crying and I started crying and he started crying. It’s all about those magical moments. As I said it’s about the process for me.”Alia Bhatt, Actor
Karan Johar on Pay Disparity
Of late, many actors like Taapsee Pannu and Kriti Sanon have spoken about the pay disparity that exists in Bollywood. However, Karan Johar cited some optics that are at play in deciding why male actors get paid more than their female counterparts.
Listen to what he has to say:
Karan Johar also said that he believes if you are talented you will be discovered. “I directed Mrunal for my short film Ghost Stories because I enjoyed watching her in her films. When you engage with an artiste it is on the basis of his/her talent,” Karan added.
Kareena and Alia’s Advice to Aspiring Actors
Kareena Kapoor Khan had a word of caution to all aspiring actors - always protect yourself. “Anything can happen, but always protect yourself and then follow your dreams. Never lose self-confidence,” the actor said.
On the other hand, Alia advised youngsters to work hard but not take it too seriously.
Check out some photos from the Movie Mela.
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