Karisma Kapur’s bond with Hyderabad has grown stronger over the years. She had shot her first movie, 'Prem Qaidi', in the city in the 1990s and had returned to shoot many of her David Dhawan hits here. Earlier this year, she was here for the cover shoot of Harpers Bazaar India in a new avatar at the Falaknuma Palace.
On Sunday, she was back to celebrate yet another of her successful collaborations with the city – as the brand ambassador of Neerus Emporio. She walked the ramp in a gorgeous green anarkali lehenga at the fashion show held to mark the first anniversary of the Emporio, with her song Mehndi Hai Rachne Waali in the background, amid cheers and mobile cameras focused on her.
“I have an emotional connect with Hyderabad. I have burnt my feet here while shooting, have gorged on biryani and haleem. I have many friends here,” says Karisma.
So, when will we see her in Tollywood? “I am not sure. I have got Telugu film offers all through my career, but I have shied away due to the language problem. I know many Bollywood stars are acting in South, but I think I’ve been the only exception.”
Any favourites? “Venky, Chiranjeevi Sir and Nagarjuna Sir. That’s because they were working when I was also acting.”
Among the current lot, Karisma mentions Ram Charan and Rana Daggubati fondly. “I have seen them when they were young. The new generation is doing such good work, I am happy for them.”
But her film career is not on her mind now. “My kids are my first priority. I have had a long career of critical acclaim and commercial success. I wrote a book on parenting recently ('My Yummy Mummy Guide'). I am an RJ. My endorsements keep me busy as well.”
With Christmas round the corner, what gift-list have her kids, Samaira and Kiaan, rolled out? “I am still to get that list,” she says, adding, “Christmas has been a big thing for us since childhood (her mother, Babita, is a practicing Christian). We go to church and host a big traditional feast with turkey, cranberry sauce and all. It’s family time.”
On 'Koffee with Karan' recently, her sister Kareena had made good fun of cousin Ranbir Kapoor’s much talked-about relationship with Katrina Kaif. Does she ever tease Ranbir? “I can’t comment. But we all would want see him get married soon.”
Any suitable match that Karisma has in mind? “Let Ranbir decide,” she concludes.
