KAREENA: abt new figure, new competiton,old flames

You are working with Shah Rukh Khan; apart from a couple of songs you did with him in Billu and Don, after a really long time.

Yes, it has been ten years since we worked in Asoka. It is an absolute honour for me that Shah Rukh wants me in his most ambitious project. It is the most expensive film in the history of Indian cinema. It is the best compliment.

Do you think the Chammak Challo number will beat the popularity of Munni and Sheila?

I am nobody to decide that. Chammak Challo is not an item number. It is neither projected nor publicised that way. I am the heroine of the film and the song is a part of it. It can't be compared to Munni or Sheila. However, the response is surprising. It has become like an anthem. I have never done a song like this. When I signed the film, Shah Rukh had promised two songs on which I can keep performing throughout the year. He has kept his word.

Going by your Chammak Challo look, do you think size zero was a mistake?

I don't think so. Size zero had its own charm. I wanted to do something nobody had done before. Everyone will remember the size zero phase of Kareena Kapoor's life. Today, I am curvier and I think my fans like me that way. Even Saif prefers me like this. I think I am looking like a Hindi film heroine now.

With the biggest films this year, do you think it is the best phase of your career?

Everything I had ever wanted or wished for has suddenly materialised. After 3 Idiots, Bodyguard and now RA.One, I am in a happy space. If RA.One goes on to break all records at the box office, I will be happier. The film has the capacity to achieve that.

Your wax statue will finally be unveiled…

Yes, on the 27th. It is yet to sink in. I think the timing is perfect since RA.One releases a day before and hopefully it will break all records. Saif will be busy shooting in Rajasthan, so mom will come with me for the ceremony.

There's a lot of debate about you and Katrina contending for the number one spot...

I have always let my films do the talking. I don't care if people slot me at number 100 as long as Bodyguard goes on to make Rs 150 crore and 3 Idiots garners Rs 300 crore. I hope RA.One gets bigger numbers and Agent Vinod breaks records.

Katrina is working with the three big Khans - Shah Rukh, Aamir and Salman. How does it feel?

When I worked with all the Khans within a year, it was the first time anyone had ever done that. There will be other actresses who will do the same. I am glad I had the first opportunity.

With Karisma making her comeback, you will now have competition within the family...

To me, Karisma is the eternal diva. I have learnt everything from her - the dance, the expressions. She is somebody I look up to. I hope she does more films now. I have seen the rushes of Dangerous Ishq, her comeback film and she looks spectacular. She is like a 19-year-old. She can never be a competition to me. I will always be behind her.

Moving on... How is Saif Ali Khan dealing with his father's death?

I think Saif has taken it very well. He is brave and strong. And so is his family. The loss is too personal. It would be wrong to even talk about it.

You are working on Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai 2 and there is a possibility that Shahid Kapoor may sign the project. Will it be awkward?

I have not met Milan Luthria yet. I haven't read the script either. I am eager to work on the film since I loved the first. As far as working with anyone is concerned, I have always been relaxed about it. I am happy if my role is good.

The interview cannot end without asking about your wedding plans...

People have fixed my wedding for February. Can you imagine? The date, the menu and the costumes are fixed - only Saif and I don't know about it. I assure you that nothing has been decided yet. We haven't had the time. Saif and I won't lie about it. Whenever we decide, we shall announce the same. People should just stop speculating.

Didn't she say during Tashan she was just "fit" and not "size zero"? Now she says the opposite? 😕