‘My girlfriend is two years younger than you…’: Soha Ali Khan says ‘it took time’ for her to warm up to Kareena Kapoor; ways to build a bond with sibling’s partner

She admitted that meeting someone with such a prominent public image carried certain assumptions. “And then of course, I think when you meet anybody who is a superstar, you have a preconceived notion about how they might be. And, I am not one of those people who really judge someone until you meet them. So, all I thought was that this is a very famous person. It takes time to make an impression on someone.”

Soha also described how her connection with Kareena deepened over the years. “I really feel like the first few times that we met, I didn’t get to know her. It took time. It takes time, trust, and consistency to build a relationship with some people. It took that time between Kareena and me. Also, a few incidents that have happened over the past maybe 10-12 years have brought us closer together. Any relationship that has meaning to it requires time and nurturing.”

So, when your sibling introduces a serious partner, what’s the healthiest mindset a family member should adopt to ensure warmth and acceptance?

Sonal Khangarot, licensed rehabilitation counsellor and psychotherapist, The Answer Room, tells indianexpress.com, “When a sibling introduces a serious partner, it’s natural for family members to feel a shift in attention, love, and time. The healthiest mindset to adopt is one of openness and flexibility — recognising that relationships expand the circle of care rather than diminish it. Instead of viewing the new partner as a competitor for your sibling’s time, see them as someone who adds value to the family. This requires practicing empathy, patience, and respect for the couple’s boundaries.” 

How can family members address feelings of jealousy, comparison, or even losing closeness constructively?

Khangarot states, “As a psychologist, I suggest reframing the situation: instead of seeing it as ‘losing’ your sibling, recognise it as your relationship evolving. Open communication helps, share your feelings without blame, and allow space for reassurance.” 

At the same time, she advises nurturing your own interests and support systems so your identity isn’t solely tied to your sibling. By focusing on acceptance and building healthy independence, you create space for both intimacy and growth within the family dynamic.

Some ways to build a genuine bond with your sibling’s partner

To build a genuine bond with your sibling’s partner, focus on authenticity rather than effortful pleasing. Show curiosity about their interests, values, and life experiences, while also sharing parts of your own story—this creates mutual trust. Small gestures, like including them in family traditions or asking for their opinion, signal acceptance without pressure. 

“It’s equally important to respect their individuality and give space for the bond to develop at its own pace. Avoid comparing them to past relationships and instead treat them as their own person. Genuine warmth comes from consistency, empathy, and creating shared moments that feel natural, not staged,” concludes Khangarot. 

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