Karisma Kapoor, born into the legendary Kapoor family of Indian cinema, made her much-anticipated Bollywood debut in 1991 with the film Prem Qaidi. At just 17 years old, Karisma broke the family鈥檚 long-standing tradition of discouraging women from entering the film industry. Her decision to act was bold and historic, as she became the first Kapoor daughter to step into the spotlight of Hindi cinema.
Ahead of the film鈥檚 release, Karisma Kapoor spoke to Lehren and was asked about the role of her superstar uncles, Shashi Kapoor and Rishi Kapoor, in her life, especially on the career front. When asked if she took career advice from them, Karisma said, 鈥淲ell, as a family, we are together. But professionally, to each their own. It鈥檚 not like that.鈥
Karisma explained, 鈥淢y parents (Randhir Kapoor and Babita Kapoor) are the most important. It鈥檚 my mother and my father who are the most important people. If they have agreed, nobody has anything else to say. As a family, we are all together. But professionally, to each their own. Everybody minds their own business.鈥
Since Karisma belongs to the Kapoor clan, all eyes were on the actress when she made her debut. She said, 鈥淚 will not let my grandfather (Raj Kapoor) down. That is my promise to my grandfather. I have nothing to worry about because I know my grandfather is watching from above. He鈥檚 guiding me, he鈥檚 watching, and I know that I will live up to people鈥檚 expectations. I know what I have to live up to.鈥
Karisma鈥檚 debut film, Prem Qaidi, a romantic drama directed by K Murali Mohana Rao and produced by D Rama Naidu, was a remake of the Telugu film Prem Khaidi. Karisma starred opposite newcomer Harish Kumar. Though the film was a modest success at the box office, it generated significant buzz due to Karisma鈥檚 lineage and her striking screen presence. Despite being a debutante, Karisma held her own with a confident performance, showcasing a mix of youthful charm and emotional depth.
Karisma鈥檚 debut was also a reflection of changing times in Bollywood. As the industry began to open up to new talent and modern storytelling, her presence signalled a fresh wave of female actors who were confident, glamorous, and career-driven. Over the years, she worked with top actors and directors, starring in hits like Raja Hindustani, Dil To Pagal Hai, and Biwi No.1, eventually earning a National Film Award and a Filmfare Award for her critically acclaimed role in Fiza.