In a moment that has since become a memorable highlight of the show, Bollywood actor Sonam Kapoor confidently declared herself an ‘icon’ on Karan Johar’s much-discussed and star-studded chat show ‘Koffee With Karan’. Known for her unabashed honesty and fearless opinions, Kapoor, daughter of veteran actor Anil Kapoor, has often made headlines for her candid remarks. But it was her self-proclamation as an icon at a relatively young age that left many shocked, stirring widespread discussion.
Sonam Kapoor, who has made a significant impact in the Hindi film industry, is also known for her keen fashion sense. However, it was her appearance on Karan Johar’s chat show ‘Koffee With Karan’ that cemented her as a figure of both admiration and controversy. Reflecting back on the episode, one can clearly see how her bold statements during the show set the tone for her public persona.
During one of the earlier episodes of ‘Koffee With Karan’, Kapoor did not shy away from expressing her belief in her iconic status. “I am being considered as an icon in my twenties,” she stated, “when usually, people are called icons in their forties or even posthumously.” This assertion was met with surprise by many, including the show’s host Karan Johar, who couldn’t help but chuckle at Kapoor’s audacity and self-assuredness.
Kapoor’s reasoning for considering herself an icon stemmed partly from her significant impact on fashion trends. When Johar inquired whether she was troubled by being recognized more for her fashion prowess than her acting performances, Kapoor’s response was as insightful as it was unapologetic. She pointed out that many of the world’s biggest movie stars were also fashion icons. She cited legends like Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Katherine Hepburn, and Indian cinema icons Meena Kumari, Sharmila Tagore, and Rekha as examples. “They’ve always been fashion icons, they’ve always set trends,” she explained.
Expanding on her argument, Kapoor elaborated on her dual appeal to both mainstream audiences and the elite, stating, “The masses like me as a regular, normal girl; those are the people who see my films, that’s why my films do the kind of business that they do. But the ‘classes’, who see me on Vogue or watch Koffee with Karan, they like me as a fashion icon.
. So, I think I’m catering to both sides.”
Kapoor’s perspective on the Indian film industry’s bias towards appearances also sparked considerable discussion. She pointed out a prevalent stereotype within the industry, where actors who do not fit conventional standards of beauty are often overcompensated for their acting skills. “The thing about the industry is that if you’re not good-looking they think you’re a good actor,” she commented, critiquing the superficial yardstick some use to measure talent. She further added, “Just because you look ordinary and act loud doesn’t mean you’re a good actor. That’s rubbish.”
She proudly highlighted her versatility, mentioning her ability to embody diverse roles irrespective of her privileged background. “I do North Indian roles, but I’m from JVPD Scheme,” she said, adding that she could convincingly play a Bittu from “Delhi-6,” a Zoya from Lucknow, as well as sophisticated characters like Ayesha, or appear in a lighthearted film like “I Hate Luv Stories.”
Throughout the interview, Johar appeared both amused and taken aback by Kapoor’s confidence and straightforwardness. Her comments, made with such conviction, resonated with many viewers, while also ruffling some feathers within the industry. This candid conversation undeniably contributed to the show’s reputation for uncovering the unfettered thoughts of Bollywood’s glitterati.
Sonam Kapoor’s declaration of herself as an icon, although seen as presumptuous by some, also fueled a broader conversation about self-worth, confidence, and the evolving standards of what it means to be an icon in the entertainment industry. The episode remains one of the standout moments from ‘Koffee With Karan’, remembered for Kapoor’s fearless expression of her beliefs and her unapologetic demeanor.
Whether you agree with her or not, there’s no denying that Sonam Kapoor’s words left an indelible mark on all who witnessed her interview. It remains a testament to her boldness and a poignant reminder of the ever-changing dynamics of celebrity culture in Bollywood.
