Kareena Kapoor on work after marriage, her role as a responsible, diligent journalist in Satyagraha and why women’s safety is the need of the hour

Has marriage made a difference to your approach to work?

No, I don’t think so. Saif and I were in love and we decided to get married. The media makes a lot of hoo-hah when an actress gets married. But in real life there is no change at all. Life goes on. Right now, I am working here and Saif is working in America — there are no restrictions.

Do you feel more responsible now that you are married?

Since childhood, I have been a very responsible girl. Earlier, I had the responsibility of my family — my mom and Karisma — and now I have Saif’s responsibility. Actually, Saif is quite mature; he is a 43-year-old man and is responsible for himself.

What is your priority — work or marriage?

I have always balanced both things well. I am interested in work as well as love. Love is not a crime. Why do people try to link love and career?

The common notion is that men change after marriage. Does this apply to Saif?

I feel the same as I did when I was dating Saif. He has not changed and hopefully, he will not (laughs).

Can you elaborate on your role in Satyagraha?

I am the conscience of the film. My character is the voice of truth because a journalist’s responsibility is to report the truth. She is the voice of this revolution and that is why I wanted to play the part.

Do you think journalists always represent the truth?

I believe there is a lot of responsibility that comes with journalism; and one of them is truthful reporting.

As a journalist, which actor would you like to interview?

Now that I have played a journalist, I know how to handle you (and other journalists). Actually, there are so many actors who I would like to interview but no actors from Bollywood. Hmm … I would like to interview Brad Pitt.

Which issue could prompt you to participate in a ‘satyagraha’

Women’s safety is the need of the hour, both for women and for the country. My sister has a daughter and I would want her to be safe when she grows up.

Prakash Jha tends to form long-term associations (Amitabh, Ajay, Manoj, Arjun) with his actors. Are you looking forward to having the same kind of bond?

I hope that after this film, I too become his favourite (laughs).

What was it like to work with Amitabh Bachchan after a decade?

We have done two very good movies together before — Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001) and Dev (2004).
Now Satyagraha too, I feel, is a great film. The atmosphere was great and we had an exciting time shooting for the film.

If you were to pick a film of your mother-in-law Sharmila Tagore, which one would be your favourite?

Amar Prem. I loved her in the film.

If Amar Prem were remade, would you like to reprise Sharmila’s role?

No, I don’t think classics should be remade.