What is it like being a youth icon today?
I don’t understand the term but I still respect it. I think Amitabh Bachchan is more of a youth icon because everyone wants to be like him.
How does it feel being one of the most searched name on Internet?
It feels wonderful. I am glad and I hope I don't let down my fans not only in 2009, but in 2010, 2011, 2012…
What would you say is your USP?
I am too new in the industry to think about my strengths and weaknesses. I go by my gut and I feel extremely grateful to be working with bright filmmakers.
What does ‘youth’ mean to you?
It’s a great space to be in. By space, I mean the time when you’re out of college, undecided about the next step in life, yet you’re dreaming big and have the drive to chase dreams.
Do you feel Gen Y is heading in the right direction?
Yes. My generation dreams big. We don’t define success by the size of our house or our salary. Success is being confident about any profession one is in.
Aren’t most youngsters afraid of commitment?
I can’t speak for everyone, but I am not commitment phobic. I’m in a relationship and no one ever forced me to be in it. So why would I be scared?
Your dad plays Saif Ali Khan’s love guru in Love Aaj Kal. Do you agree with your dad’s viewpoints on love in the movie?
Largely. Love is about trust and being committed. I don’t believe in the concept of soul mates, though. Love is a strong term and is often misused. When we have girlfriends, we tell everyone we’re in love, when it’s only attraction or a little more than that.
Is there a set formula to woo women today?
There are no set formulae in love. But originality always works. I’m sure my dad would also want to know how I wooed my girl.
How do you feel about moving out of your house into your own private space?
I would never move out. But if I ever did, I would be spending as much time with my parents as I do now. Moving out is fine but detaching yourself from your family is not fair.
You have been tagged as a mama’s boy. Does that bug you or please you?
Of course, I am proud of the fact that I am closest to my mom. She’s the most important person in my life, and I can do anything for her.
Do you think sex education should be encouraged?
Why not? There’s no harm discussing sex with your children. It can help families avoid heartburn and humongous hospital bills.
Do you think that urban India is partying more than it should?
Partying once in a while helps unwind. But one can’t go partying every night because one can’t report to work the next morning feeling untidy and looking like s**t. At least my job doesn’t permit me to get drunk and get home at 3 am.
How ambitious are you?
I am extremely ambitious. I want to work with the biggest filmmakers. I want to direct movies, produce movies and do it all.
You are also doing Prakash Jha’s film Rajneeti, which is based on stark reality. Aren’t you scared to deviate from the tried and tested romantic genre?
Not at all! You can’t categorise films into narrow genres. I have always admired Prakash Jha’s style of working and his kind of cinema. I am actually excited about his film, which portrays life in its realistic form.
People say you are a natural actor. Do you attribute it to your Kapoor genes?
I don't really believe in genes. I don't think a great surgeon's son necessarily becomes a great surgeon. I think good acting has a lot to do with talent, a lot of hard work and lots of luck.
Ever since your arrival in the film industry, you have made quite a few stars insecure...
I don’t think anybody is insecure. I don’t even dwell on such things. The industry is big enough to accommodate everyone.
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