By Kushinara M D
In July 2025, Kareena Kapoor Khan marks an extraordinary milestone — 25 years in Bollywood. From being a young debutante with star lineage to establishing herself as a powerhouse of talent and grace, Kareena’s journey is not just one of longevity, but of reinvention, resilience, and relevance.
A Legacy Born in the Movies
Born on September 21, 1980, into the first family of Indian cinema — the Kapoor clan — Kareena Kapoor seemed destined for stardom. Daughter of actors Randhir Kapoor and Babita, and younger sister to Karisma Kapoor, she inherited not only luminous genes but also a formidable cinematic legacy. She is the granddaughter of Raj Kapoor, and the great-granddaughter of Prithviraj Kapoor, pillars of Indian film history.
Despite this star-studded pedigree, Kareena carved a niche of her own — often subverting expectations, experimenting with roles, and constantly redefining what it means to be a mainstream Bollywood actress.
The Debut That Dazzled: Refugee (2000)
Kareena made her debut with J.P. Dutta’s Refugee in 2000, opposite another newcomer — Abhishek Bachchan. While the film was met with mixed reviews, Kareena’s performance was widely praised, earning her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut. With her expressive eyes and confident screen presence, a star was born.
A Journey of Iconic Roles & Box Office Triumphs
In a career spanning 25 years, Kareena Kapoor has delivered a mix of critically acclaimed performances, commercial blockbusters, and genre-defining roles. Here’s a look at some of her most memorable films:
⭐ Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001)
Her portrayal of the glamorous and sassy Poo became a cultural phenomenon. Even two decades later, her one-liners and fashion from the film remain iconic.
⭐ Chameli (2004)
A bold departure from her commercial image, Kareena played a street-smart sex worker with sensitivity and grit. This role redefined her as a serious actor.
⭐ Omkara (2006)
As Dolly, based on Desdemona from Shakespeare’s Othello, Kareena showcased haunting vulnerability, earning her critical acclaim and awards.
⭐ Jab We Met (2007)
Arguably her most beloved role, Kareena’s Geet — a free-spirited, talkative Punjabi girl — became a pop culture icon. The film was a turning point, reaffirming her status as a top-tier actress.
⭐ Tanu Weds Manu (Not hers — but inspired casting led her to pick similar vibrant roles like Heroine and Good Newwz)
Kareena maintained a balance between depth and fun — never afraid to take risks or go bold, even in mainstream fare.
⭐ Heroine (2012)
As a troubled Bollywood star, Kareena delivered one of her most intense performances, showing the fragility behind fame.
⭐ Veere Di Wedding (2018)
A landmark in female-led storytelling, Kareena played a modern Indian woman confronting commitment, family, and societal norms.
⭐ Laal Singh Chaddha (2022)
Though the film had a mixed reception, her nuanced performance opposite Aamir Khan stood out.
⭐ Jaane Jaan (2023)
Her OTT debut showcased her in a gritty, noir-inspired thriller, proving her ability to adapt with changing platforms and trends.
An Ever-Evolving Star
Over the years, Kareena has seamlessly navigated different phases — from glam girl to serious performer, from romantic heroine to powerful character roles. She was among the first actresses to successfully return after motherhood, breaking the taboo around marriage and children ending a female actor’s career.
Kareena’s style quotient, brand endorsements, and public persona have always remained ahead of the curve. She’s also one of the few actresses to have her own radio talk show, What Women Want, where she engages in candid conversations with celebrities and experts.
Personal Life: Marriage, Motherhood & More
In 2012, Kareena married actor Saif Ali Khan, another royal of Indian cinema. Their relationship — mature, private, and refreshingly devoid of drama — has stood the test of time. The couple have two sons: Taimur and Jehangir (Jeh), who are often the center of media attention.
Despite the demands of motherhood, Kareena has balanced her family and work with grace. She’s even co-authored a book — Pregnancy Bible — to share her journey and break myths around pregnancy in India.
A Modern Trailblazer
Kareena Kapoor Khan’s appeal lies in her unapologetic authenticity. She’s been open about her choices, her struggles with body image, and even her mistakes. Whether it’s embracing age, opting for character-driven roles, or championing women-led narratives, Kareena has often led by example.
She’s also part of the new wave of actors who’ve embraced streaming platforms and new formats, ensuring her relevance across generations.
The Road Ahead
At 25 years into the business, Kareena Kapoor shows no signs of slowing down. With a Netflix original film, production ventures in the pipeline, and ongoing brand collaborations, she continues to evolve.
In her own words: “I’ve always believed in doing what I love — and loving what I do. That’s what keeps me going.”
Conclusion: The Queen of Reinvention
Kareena Kapoor Khan’s 25-year journey is more than just a tale of fame — it’s a testament to staying true to oneself in an industry that constantly demands change. With charm, talent, and an innate understanding of the audience, she remains a beloved figure in Indian cinema.
As we celebrate her silver jubilee in films, one thing is certain — Kareena is not just Bollywood royalty by birth, but by right.
