From Geet To Poo: Celebrating 25 Years Of Kareena Kapoor Khan

Kareena Kapoor Khan is an icon whose grace, talent, and magnetic screen presence have captivated audiences for over two decades. Throughout her dynamic career, she has impressed fans with her bold choices, powerful performances, and trendsetting roles that have helped shape the landscape of Hindi cinema. From her unforgettable portrayal of Poo in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham to her critically acclaimed performances in Chameli, Jab We Met, and Heroine, Kareena has consistently demonstrated her incredible range as an actor. Her unconventional choices in roles have made her career a template for other aspiring actors.

What sets Kareena apart is her effortless ability to balance commercial success with meaningful cinema, all while being a fashion and cultural trailblazer. Her fans admire her not just for her acting but also for her unapologetic confidence, timeless elegance, and dedication to breaking stereotypes. Whether gracing the red carpet, embracing motherhood and natural ageing under the public eye, or delivering standout performances, Kareena continues to inspire generations. 

As we celebrate 25 glorious years of Bebo in cinema, let's explore some of Kareena Kapoor Khan’s finest films, each reflecting her journey, evolution, and unmatched charisma.

Kaurwaki: Asoka

Kareena Kapoor brought life to the character of Princess Kaurwaki. This underrated gem explored the life of Prince Asoka. However, it was the presence of Princess Kaurwaki that magically sparkled the screen. Be it her now-Instagram-famous entry on San Sanana, or her being the feisty warrior princess. Kaurwaki became more than just a character in Asoka. 

Pooja 'Poo' Sharma: Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham

A character that will always remain rent-free in our minds. Just the name 'K3G' brings in the memories of our beloved 'Poo.' Be it her entry song, her remarkable punchlines, or her fashion sense, Kareena managed to outshine the ensemble cast with her charisma. Even today, her outfits and her character's background music remain iconic. The film Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham is undeniably a cult-classic, thanks to Kapoor Khan's screen presence.

Chameli: Chameli

Chameli, a street-smart sex worker and an investment banker's night encounter turned into a whirlwind adventure. The unconventional role of Chameli played by Kareena marked a turning point in her career. 

Dr. Tanvi Khurana: Kyon Ki

Kareena's performance as Dr. Tanvi Khurana in Kyon Ki, along with Salman Khan's portrayal of Anand, made the film truly memorable. The plot revolved around Anand, a convicted criminal and psychiatric patient, and his journey to heal from past trauma. The film explored mental health and psychiatric trauma long before such topics were normalised on mainstream platforms.

Shruti Chauhan: Chup Chup Ke

Apart from the funny antics Shahid Kapoor's Jeetu did throughout the film, it was also Kareena's Shruti Chauhan who silently ruled the screen with her charisma and expressions. The innocence Shruti carried throughout the film truly melted our hearts. 

Avantika Ahuja: Kurbaan

Avantika Ahuja, a psychology professor based in New York, falls in love with Ehsaan Khan (Saif Ali Khan), and the couple relocates to the USA after their marriage. What starts as a beautiful beginning gradually takes a darker turn as the story unfolds. Kurbaan is one of the most underrated thrillers, elevated further by a compelling script and powerful performances.

Pia Sahastrabuddhe: 3 Idiots

Pia Sahastrabuddhe, Rancho's better half, turned out to be the best half of Rajkumar Hirani's cult classic film. Kareena was a memorable presence in the film—be it her bridal entry on a scooter, her red helmet, her girl-next-door outfits, or the pair of square glasses Pia wore throughout the film.

Geet Dhillon: Jab We Met

Iconic dialogues, infectious energy, and unforgettable romance—the ultimate OG comfort film always echoes Geet's iconic line: "Main apni favourite hoon." Geet became the ultimate template of a bubbly, headstrong, confident girl who, to this day, continues to inspire characters in Indian TV shows and films.

Shreya Arora: We Are Family

Shreya Arora, a career-oriented fashion designer and an orphan who grew up without familial love, suddenly finds herself stepping into the shoes of a mother of three. It was Shreya’s navigation as a stepmom to her partner’s children—and her evolving relationship with his ex-wife—that made the film an appealing yet underrated gem.

Mahi Arora: Heroine

Madhur Bhandarkar's film featured Kareena Kapoor in and as Heroine. Mahi Arora, a movie starlet entangled in the scandalous underbelly of the film industry. The story revolved around Mahi’s turbulent career and the ruthless world of showbiz. From her electric performance in Halkat Jawaani to the emotionally charged scenes where Mahi battles depression and craves validation, Kareena breathed life into the character with a raw, honest portrayal.

Rosie: Talaash- The Answers Lie Within

As the song Muskaanein Jhoothi Hai has already been overutilised by social media algorithms, it's time we appreciate the OG thriller film Talaash—the one that came way ahead of its time. Kareena's mysterious role kept viewers on tenterhooks till the very end.

Kia: Ki & Ka

The film subtly explained the difference between a 'Housewife' and a 'Homemaker.' Kia, a headstrong, career-oriented woman, managed to break all conventional stereotypes surrounding a married woman. Not only did she work after marriage, but she also looked for a partner who was not professionally superior to her. Kia normalised the idea that a woman can earn money for the family while her husband looks after the house.

Kalindi Puri: Veere Di Wedding

Kalindi Puri, a girl who had apprehensions about marriage, finds solace with her childhood friends. This film went beyond the theme of girl friendships. It explored how life extended beyond the tag of being 'perfect.'

Deepti Batra: Good Newwz

Deepti, a woman anxiously waiting for years to conceive, finds herself in an unexpected situation. While Akshay's character brought a comedic punch to the film, Kareena's Deepti showcased the struggles a woman faces during the journey from conception to delivery, from unsolicited advice from relatives, to anxiously staring at the sonogram, dealing with pregnancy discomfort, and finally, the arrival of the child.

Rupa D'Souza: Laal Singh Chaddha

Rupa D'Souza, Laal’s childhood love, had a tough journey. A victim of trauma and neglect, Rupa’s unconventional life choices reflected the scars she carried within. Kareena’s portrayal of Rupa was subtle, layered, and quietly powerful. Her character didn’t demand sympathy, but instead earned it with its indifference towards emotions.

Jasmeet Bhamra: The Buckingham Murders

Jasmeet Bhamra, a grief-stricken mother and a detective amid dealing with the loss of her child, finds herself unravelling a chilling case in a foreign country. Kareena’s steeled performance as Jasmeet conveyed unsaid emotions.