Mumbai: The Hindi adaptation of Forrest Gump, titled Laal Singh Chaddha and starring Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor, was one of 2022’s most ambitious projects but ultimately failed at the box office. Despite the disappointment, Kareena Kapoor, during a recent roundtable hosted by Hollywood Reporter India alongside Shabana Azmi, Vicky Kaushal, and Rajkumar Rao, reflected on her experience with the film with great pride and affection.
Kareena’s Reflections on Laal Singh Chaddha
Kareena Kapoor, who played Rupa in the film, expressed that the role held a special place in her heart. During the discussion, she shared how Aamir Khan reacted to the movie’s underperformance, humorously asking her, “Picture nahi chali humari na, tu baat toh karegi na mujhse?” (Our film didn’t succeed; I assume you’ll still speak with me?). While he was visibly disappointed, Kareena praised his dedication, calling him a “stalwart and legend.”
Kareena also noted that the film, directed by Advait Chandan, was “beautiful and honest” and that it allowed her to explore a character unlike any other in her career. She even remarked, “Rupa has done more for me than a Singham could,” underscoring the emotional depth and personal growth the role provided.
Behind the Scenes
Kareena shared a personal anecdote from the film’s production, revealing that she discovered she was pregnant with her second child, Jeh, during filming. Encouraged by her husband Saif Ali Khan, she shared the news with Aamir Khan when the shoot was about 60% complete. His response was supportive and empathetic: “I am pleased for you. We’ll wait for you and work together to complete the film.”
The Film’s Reception
With a production budget of ₹180 crore, Laal Singh Chaddha earned approximately ₹129 crore globally, falling short of commercial expectations. While the film’s performances and emotional fidelity to the original story were praised by some, others criticized its pacing and narrative. The simultaneous Boycott Bollywood campaign on social media further impacted its theatrical performance. However, once released on OTT platforms, the film found a new audience, gaining appreciation for its heartfelt storytelling.
Kareena’s Recent and Upcoming Projects
Post-Laal Singh Chaddha, Kareena Kapoor has been part of major projects like the Rohit Shetty-directed Singham Again. She continues to balance commercial blockbusters with more nuanced roles, proving her versatility as an actress.
Despite the box office numbers, Laal Singh Chaddha stands out in Kareena’s career as a labor of love, embodying the spirit of heartfelt cinema in an era dominated by high-stakes commercial ventures.
