According to you, what are the three must-haves in a bridal trousseau? And what kind of jewellery do you personally like?

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend for sure. I love fuss-free Indian wear like Anarkalis which should be a must-have. Easy, everyday wear jewellery for working women who like to add a bit of glam. Maybe a statement necklace for one of your functions and you are good to go.

Your most special memory of your wedding day? And what did you inherit from your mother-in-law in terms of vintage clothing? 

It was a truly a Nawabi-style wedding. My mother-in-law gave me an heirloom sari that will always be precious.

How has marriage changed you as a person and an actor? Do you really think motherhood makes you a better individual? 

Being a mother has made me realize, the biggest responsibility is to be one. I’ve been a responsible daughter. I’ve been a responsible wife. I hope and pray that I’m a responsible mother to Taimur as well.

What are the five beauty items you can’t do without and would recommend to others? 

A lip balm, moisturizer, an eye mask, a homemade face pack, and almond oil.

You are very close to your sister what makes this bond so strong? What are the qualities you admire in her? 

Karisma is my older sister, but I think I kind of bully her sometimes. I fire her, and I also give her advice. But eventually, she’s the person I have grown up aspiring to be. Even the way she conducted herself back in the ’90s—she was a very private actor — was inspiring. What I admire the most in her personality is the dignity with which she has conducted her life, her career, and single-handedly brought up her children.

Do you think young actors are much smarter and aware than your generation? Which amongst the young lot of actors do you admire? 

From Raazi to Gully Boy, Alia’s (Bhatt) choices of films is outstanding. She reminds me of myself when I did Chameli, Yuva, and Omkara. She is a brilliant actor.

Your favourite designer when it came to your own trousseau? 

Manish Malhotra. Always a dear friend. Always there.

How is your relationship with Sara and what advice do you give her as an actor? 

We’re like best friends. Saif refuses to come out with us. She’s my barhopping partner. I enjoy my equation with her. I always remember Sara standing up and doing a dab. Both Sara and Ibrahim are like that. I am a friend to them. At times I and Sara chat over a glass of champagne. That’s the way Saif wanted and that’s the way I wanted it. Whenever she wants to call me she does at a time when Saif isn’t around and she doesn’t want to talk to him. She talks to me.

What it the toughest part about being an actor and a celebrity parent? How do you find yourself a peaceful balance?

The toughest part one would think is to juggle your career and personal life, but I love doing nothing and being at home, just with my son, Taimur. But again, I also know that I can’t always do that. So, the idea is to find that balance. Strangely and honestly, I’ve found the perfect balance between my personal and professional life. For instance, if I’m working back-to-back for four-five days, I take the next two-three days off because I want that downtime. I need to have my family and friends around because my life revolves around them. I need to feel like a human being. I can’t treat myself like a robot because this industry and the atmosphere pushes you to become one. People are always on the go—if you’re not at work or a set, you’re on digital platforms like Instagram and Twitter or talking somewhere and giving your comments.

Do you think Taimur has an inkling about his special status? Does his celebrity status bother him? 

We want to give him a normal childhood. I do not want to grow up covering Taimur’s face because that would scar him even more. He does not like being clicked all the time as he is growing up and has become aware of what is happening around him. He even denies us if we want to photograph him.