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Karisma Kapoor recalls when actors had to walk miles to use a washroom, would have to change behind bushes: ‘The entire unit would whisper’

Karisma Kapoor marked her acting debut in 1991 at the age of 16. At 22, she received her first National Award for the 1997 film Dil Toh Pagal Hai.

Karisma KapoorKarisma Kapoor marked her acting debut in 1991. (Photo: Express Archive)

Karisma Kapoor, who hails from the first family of Indian cinema, had a challenging journey in the film industry. Unlike the modern-day Bollywood stars who travel with a massive entourage–complete with three different chefs for three meals and multiple vanity vans for various purposes–things were vastly different until the 1990s. For actors back then, having a clean washroom on set was a luxury, let alone a designated space to rest.

Making her acting debut at just 16-years-old, Karisma shared her experiences from her early years in the industry. Speaking at a Ladies Study Group event last year, she fondly recalled the struggles of shooting in the ’90s. “Being in the industry for 32 years… I have worked during a time that might seem unbelievable to many of you. We used to change behind bushes. If anyone needed to use the bathroom, we would walk for miles, and the entire unit would whisper, ‘Ah, Ma’am’s going to the loo.’ We have really seen those times,” she shared.

Karisma went on to explain how actors had to be resourceful during shoots: “We would often stop at roadside shops or knock on someone’s door, asking, ‘Can we change here? We’re shooting for a song outside.’ From that, to see the industry today—with 35 trailers parked outside, the latest digital media, and state-of-the-art sound systems–it’s truly unbelievable.”

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Karisma also shared a memorable anecdote about the evolution of filmmaking technology: “We made movies where we only dubbed. The first time I saw myself on a monitor was during the ‘Dance of Envy’ in Dil To Pagal Hai. Before that, we never saw the footage. It was only when the film released on the big screen, in 70mm, that we saw the results.”

Having grown up in Raj Kapoor’s illustrious family, Karisma expressed deep gratitude for witnessing the industry’s transformation from such close quarters. “I have had the privilege of seeing the industry grow and evolve so much. I am grateful that I can share my own experiences and talk about the incredible progress that Indian cinema has made.”

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