Not so fast: Sonam setting the record straight

‘Veeray di Wedding’ actor says Kareena Kapoor is still part of project, flays media for irresponsible reporting

MUMBAI: Bollywood beauty Sonam Kapoor – who will soon be sharing screen space with Kareena Kapoor-Khan in the upcoming film Veeray di Wedding – has rubbished rumours that the latter opted out of the film due to her pregnancy.

Kareena is currently expecting her first child with husband Saif Ali Khan. According to Sonam, reports of Kareena’s exit are completely untrue and nothing but gossip. Criticising the media, Sonam said, “Nobody has contacted us, nor are they picking up their phones for clarification. Honestly, this is all gossip as we are about to start shooting for certain portions of the film. Most of the film, however, will be shot in April, after Kareena’s delivery.” The actor admonished the media for making baseless claims. “It’s a very irresponsible way of writing news. I didn’t expect this much.”



Addressing the media at an event held to celebrate female entrepreneurship, Sonam took the opportunity to speak about gender inequality as well. “In general, ours has always been a patriarchal society and we have a lot of uneven ground for female actors and sportswomen. Women in our society face many obstacles, as they are judged by how they look or speak or whether they are pregnant or not,” said the Neerja star. “We are just not looked at as strong, capable individuals. I think it’s extremely unfair and I hope things will get better.”

In this connection, Sonam expressed that she thinks a biopic on iconic Indian track and field star PT Usha ought to be made. The sprinter is regarded as one of India’s greatest athletes and frequently referred to as the ‘Queen of Track and Field.’

“I have done a biographical film recently but yes, if something good comes on female athletes, it should be encouraged. But, at first, I do believe that we need to make a biopic on PT Usha.”

For Sonam, women are the foundation of society and empowering them will help bring about change. “We have always celebrated the success of athletes. Like we made Milkha Singh’s biopic,” she said. “I hope many runners are inspired by that. There is such a huge population; there are so many talented people whose biopics can be made,” Sonam added, revealing she loves sports and herself indulged in basketball, handball and running. She also cited the success of female athletes in the recent Olympics in Brazil.

“Any person who has made an impact on society, a biopic can be made on them. The script ought to be respectful to celebrate a legend,” said Sonam, when asked about a biopic on legendary musician RD Burman. “I feel that I am blessed with a lot and it’s my duty to give back in whatever way possible. I try to do that every day, in my own little way,” she concluded.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 25^th, 2016.

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