10 things we LOVE about SONAM - REDIFF ARTICLE

A woman, a child, a dreamer, a brat, a star -- Sonam Kapoor's appeal has several facets.

From Anil Kapoor' roly-poly firstborn to Bollywood's reigning fashionista, the actress began her journey with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Saawariya opposite another high-profile star kid, Ranbir Kapoor. Sadly, the hugely hyped launchpad got trounced by rival Deepika Padukone's Om Shanti Om, which released on the same day.

Despite the love story's embarrassing performance, Sonam stayed afloat thanks to that elusive star quality every actor craves but few possess. Yes, even when her perennial foot-in-the-mouth syndrome lands her in more trouble than she'd like, Sonam is the quintessential embodiment of the love them, hate them, cannot ignore them' paradigm.

The stunner turns 29 today. Here are 10 things we LOVE about the Raanjhanaa beauty.

10. Say cheese! 🤔

Unbridled, unconscious and downright infectious, Sonam's melting smile has #FTW written all over it.

Before joining the movies, the Aisha star faced a lot of weight issues and worked really hard to get in shape.

Once ridiculed as Latino Papita' by her friends, the sassy Kapoor transformed into a svelte bikini babe for Bewakoofiyan.

Be it Delhi 6, Mausam, Raanjhanaa or Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Sonam is effortless in her portrayal of the demure desi.

What's incredible is how she transforms into a trendsetting urban item in a jiffy for films like Aisha, Players and I Hate Luv Storys.

In the era of artificial extensions and treated hair, the sight of Sonam Kapoor's naturally lush, glorious tresses makes us sigh with awe and envy.

Stardom isn't the only aspect of Sonam's ultra glamorous life. The actress is all heart when it comes to looking out for her near and dear ones.

Whether it's her family-- both immediate and extended, pet dogs or close pals, relationships occupy top priority in theMausam girl's life.

When not at the receiving end for her inane, witless quotes - "I am considered an icon, blah, blah" on television or print, Sonam's politically incorrect temperament can be quite a hoot.

Remember how she poked fun at co-star Ranbir on Koffee With Karan or took a potshot at a certain socialite-columnist on Twitter?

And the only reason she gets away with this kind of irreverence is because she can take a joke. Or two.

From personally receiving a rather uncomplimentary prize at the Razzies-inspired Ghanta Awards to making light of viral videos mocking her, Sonam's sporting humour is a rarity in an industry infested with bloated egos.

No month goes by without a Sonam Kapoor cover. And why not?

Drama, class, sizzle or experimental, just what can't this darling of all glossies and photographer's trigger-happy dream achieve?

Her love for retail therapy is legendary. Almost every second conversation with the star ends up in a vintage boutique of France.

Chanel, Dior, Valentino, Cavalli, Dolce & Gabbana, Elie Saab, Anamika Khanna, Masaba, Jimmy Choo -- clothes, bags, shoes, jewels, Sonam's exquisite wardrobe could put Santa's workshop to shame.

Call her the high priestess of haute couture, designer junkie or Bollywood's ultimate fashionista but Sonam's most talked-about virtue is truly irresistible. Even if you're not into fashion, you will notice.

Labels or casuals, her ability to shift from one distinct look to another with inspiring grace and ease is nothing short of an art form.