In a recent roundtable discussion with The Hollywood Reporter India, Kareena Kapoor Khan reflected on the emotional aftermath of the underwhelming box-office performance of Laal Singh Chaddha, co-starring Aamir Khan. Joining fellow actors like Vicky Kaushal, Shabana Azmi, Rajkummar Rao, and Anna Ben, Kareena revisited the impact the film’s failure had on Aamir and herself.

Calling Laal Singh Chaddha a “beautiful and honest” project, Kareena shared her pride in being part of it. “Of course, he [Aamir] was shattered,” she said, recounting an emotional moment when Aamir jokingly asked her, “Picture nahi chali humari na, tu baat toh karegi na mujhse?” (Our movie didn’t work. You will still talk to me, right?).

Despite the disappointment, Kareena remains grateful for her role as Rupa, a character she described as more impactful for her career than a blockbuster like Singham Again. Highlighting director Advait Chandan’s thoughtful storytelling, she praised the film’s heartfelt approach, saying, “Everybody gave it their best… It was about the honesty of the story.”

Kareena also shared a personal story from the film’s production: discovering her pregnancy with her second son, Jeh, when the film was 60% complete. Encouraged by her husband, Saif Ali Khan, she revealed the news to Aamir, who offered his full support. “I’m happy for you. We’ll wait for you, and we’ll finish the movie together,” Aamir had assured her.

This moment reaffirmed her faith in the industry. “It made me realise there are people who truly value you and your decisions,” Kareena said.

Though the film struggled at the box office, Kareena believes the journey was worth it, both professionally and personally. The experience, she concluded, remains a testament to the power of storytelling and the bonds formed during filmmaking.