I am excited to work with Salman Khan: Sonam Kapoor

She had a successful 2013 with two back-to-back hits — Raanjhanaa and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. Now, as

gets ready for her first release of 2014, she talks to us about settling issues with Rishi Kapoor, being a mother figure to her cousin Arjun Kapoor, working with Salman Khan and more.

Arjun told us that you are the mother figure in his life now.

He has given me too much credit. But I do try and take care of him. I just like to be in touch with him and Anshula (Arjun’s sister) whenever I can… just to see if they are okay. They are alone, they have no one and I really love them.

What kind of equation do you share with him?

For me, he is my brother, and not just a cousin. I love him a lot and, honestly, he is one of the best people I know. He is a thorough gentleman. He’s emotional and very soft-hearted. He is like a gentle giant.







In your next, you’ve worked with Rishi Kapoor, who reacted badly to your comment on a TV show in 2010. Was all okay on the sets?

You know, if you go through that episode again, you will see that I have actually not said much.



So you inspired Deepika Padukone (who made an appearance with Sonam on the show) to say what she did?

I think that’s what it was (laughs). People blame me for the fact that, for once in life, Deepika wasn’t diplomatic. I think Rishi uncle hadn’t seen the episode when he reacted the way he did. I didn’t make any controversial statements about Ranbir at all. I had an amazing time working with Rishi uncle.



All good with Ranbir?

Yes, very good! We are good friends... I am friendly with all the co-stars I have worked with.



Are you in touch with him?

Yes, very much. We keep saying things about each other in print, but we have also grown up together. The only difference is whatever we do and say becomes public now, as opposed to when were younger. But we are all a very happy film fraternity.



We heard you are confirmed to star in Sooraj Barjatya’s film with Salman?

Yes, Soorajji’s film is finalised. It’s a superb role and I am very excited.







Have you discussed the role with your father, since he is known to be quite close to Salman?

Of course, we have. He was like, ‘You liked the story, then go ahead.’ I also messaged Salman sir, saying, ‘I really liked the script when I read it and I am looking forward to working with you.’



After two successful films last year, what made you take up Bewakoofiyan?

When the offer came, I had just finished filming for Raanjhanaa (2013) and needed a break because it (the film) was very intense.



Your dad () said that, like in the film, he would be okay if you actually bring a guy home.

I was like, ‘Dad? I guess you are thinking about it theoretically, imagine what if it actually happens.’ He said, ‘I will do the same thing.’ But at the end of the day, parents will always be worried about their kids. It’s easy for my father to say it because he feels he can take care of it. He also feels that I can take care of myself as I have been doing so since I was 18.



Your bikini shot is the talk of the town. How have the reactions been?

I have been But you know, many girls are also loving it and I’m thinking, ‘Why aren’t reacting to it?’ (laughs).



And how has your family reacted?

hasn’t said anything. All my sisters tell me I’m looking very hot. Harsh (her brother) didn’t react at all and neither did Arjun (Kapoor, cousin).