What matters is respect and love: Kareena Kapoor on her inter-faith marriage with Saif Ali Khan

Bollywood superstar discussed age differences between her and Saif as well as the topic of their different faiths

Kareena Kapoor Khan isn't a slave to an introduction. The Bollywood fashionista, whose career spans over two decades, is finally venturing into the OTT world with her first film, Jaane Jaan. The Sujoy Ghosh directorial stars the Laal Singh Chadha actor alongside Darlings famed Vijay Varma and Paatak Lok's Jaideep Ahlawat. 

In a recent candid interview, the Bollywood superstar shed light on her marriage to actor Saif Ali Khan, addressing various aspects of their relationship, including the age difference and the topic of their different faiths. The couple, who got married in 2012 after years of dating, has often faced scrutiny and criticism from certain sections of society and social media due to these factors.

Kareena, however, responded to the trolls with her characteristic wit and confidence. The Indian Express quote the actor as saying, "When has age ever mattered? He is hotter than ever. I am happy I am 10 years younger; he should be worried. No one would say he has turned 53. Age does not matter; what matters is respect and love and the fact that we have fun with each other." Her statement highlights the love and companionship that have been the foundation of their enduring relationship.

The actor also addressed the topic of their different faiths, stressing that society often places undue focus on these differences. Kareena emphasized, "We spend so much time discussing interfaith (relationships). So much energy, so much that they are ten years apart. The important thing is to have fun. The most important thing between Saif and I is that we like each other and enjoy our company. How should it matter what faith he follows or what his age is that isn’t even a point of discussion." Her words underline the significance of mutual respect and understanding in any partnership.

Kareena and Saif's wedding in October 2012 was a celebrated event in Bollywood. Saif had previously been married to actor Amrita Singh, with whom he shares two children, Sara Ali Khan and Ibrahim Ali Khan. Meanwhile, the Bollywood sweethearts are proud parents to two sons, Taimur Ali Khan (born in 2016) and Jehangir Ali Khan (born in 2021).

Jaane Jaan is an adaptation of the Japanese novel Devotion of Suspect X, scheduled to be released on Netflix on September 21. Furthermore, Kareena has an exciting project in the pipeline, starring in director Hansal Mehta's film The Buckingham Murders. Additionally, she is part of The Crew, sharing the screen with Tabu, Kriti Sanon, and Diljit Dosanjh, with Kapil Sharma making a special cameo appearance. The film is slated to hit theatres on March 22, 2024, promising an eventful and dynamic year ahead for the versatile actress.

The Jab We Met star commented about her OTT debut, “I am excited to be coming on Netflix with a very special project. After 23 years, this feels like a new launch and I have the jitters of a new-comer! Audiences will see me in a role I have never played before, with a story that is so unique and thrilling.”

Her costar, Vijay, also lauded Kareena. When quizzed about his experience working with Bebo, the actor said that Kareena is everyone’s favourite. "Her work is so iconic that today, auditions are conducted using her lines and based on her characters. She has created a type. Now, in this film, she will be seen in a whole new avatar, something the audience has never seen before. It is a very inspiring performance.”

Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.