From being an outsider in B-town to becoming one of the most successful actresses of all time, Katrina Kaif has come a long way. She opens up about the ups and downs of her journey.

Katrina Kaif’s meteoric rise in Bollywood was through grit, determination and hard work. Her professional demeanour made her bag films one after the other. An absolute outsider, who didn’t even know the language, soon became the sweetheart of the nation.

About the box office success, she smiles and says, “Yes, we do stress, feel nervous and worry about the success of a film at the box office. If I had a crystal ball in my hand and could find the outcome of the movie beforehand, I would have been the happiest person. Alas! Right now, we are going through the same emotions, and are waiting impatiently to know the result of Jagga Jasoos.”

Talking with wisdom that comes from years, she adds, “Every film causes stress, and there is tremendous pressure on actors. However, the filmmaking process includes many people right from the director to the spot boy; it’s a team effort. So, to survive, we need to breathe and let things be.”

What have you learned from your journey of self-discovery
When you search your soul, the discovery inevitably comes under a broad umbrella. In fact, you unearth so many things about yourself on a daily basis if you only care to notice. And it’s the hard times that bring out our best. I always feel tough situations will wither away like a cloud, and the sun will shine brighter no matter what. So, don’t take things too seriously. There will be ups and downs in your lifetime, stand up and face it. Don’t wallow away in self-pity and unhappiness. People who can stay happy and enjoy every moment of their life, such folks are stress-free in the truest sense. Pick up a leaf or two from their book of life and always strive to be a positive person. That’s what I have learned.

You are one of the few to have worked with all the three Khans.
Yes and I would not be able to differentiate between them, but yes there is one similarity. Shah Rukh, Aamir and Salman have been able to survive in this unpredictable industry. That requires strength in character and the ability to know your craft. Each one of them is distinct in their style and knows the pulse of their audience and to be able to do that, that is true success.

Deepika Padukone spoke about her depression, but primarily actresses hesitate to talk about sensitive issues.
We have all been fighting for this freedom of speech all over the world since time immemorial. Everyone should have the right to speak their mind without harming anyone else. Sharing your experiences may bring solace to people who are facing the same trauma. All this comes through the calling of one’s heart. Whatever message you are conveying brings in a sense of solidarity and comfort. And such disclosures are always good.

What are your views on the tough competition in the industry?
I don’t care for any competition, be it newcomers or contemporaries. Everyone in the industry is aware of my potential. Professionally, work is aplenty, and love and blessings come in multiples. I only believe in working hard and feel that whatever has to come to you will always come to you.

Each one has personal stories of struggle and individual battles to deal with. Looking at anyone we cannot guess their problems. Be it Kareena or Kangana; you will never know what they are going through, so we need to stop judging everyone. Sometimes someone may snap at you, and you will feel upset at that moment, but maybe that reaction had a backstory that you are unaware of, perhaps. So, don’t take it personally and don’t look too much into it. Some day the real reason will come to you. Till then, just live and let live.

You play an investigative journalist in Jagga Jasoos. Have you had a run in with snoopy people yourself?
I’m always too involved with my work as well as personal space. I do not like to intrude in anybody’s space or privacy. As long as I can manage my time and life efficiently, I am good. I don’t know of anyone who is trying to investigate about my life. And if they are, that’s unusual for sure.

Tell us more...
Jagga is not poking his nose into people’s businesses, randomly. He is just trying to solve mysteries. Finding answers to certain questions which even the police do not have. He meets this girl who partners with him in his search. He is the main jasoos. He is trying to find where his father is and why he went away.

Are you getting into production?
Absolutely! It is something I would like to experience.