‘Life off-screen is where the real magic happens’: Inside Sara Ali Khan’s world beyond the spotlight

In this candid conversation with indianexpress.com, the actor opens up about life beyond the spotlight, her approach to social media, and the lessons she’s learnt from her father, Saif Ali Khan.

Q. The public sees a very dynamic, energetic Sara Ali Khan. What’s one side of you that most people don’t get to see?

Sara Ali Khan: You’ll probably find me curled up with a good book or off exploring new places. I love getting lost in a story — it’s such a great way to escape and see things from a fresh perspective. Travelling also keeps me grounded; I enjoy discovering new cultures, trying different foods, and finding hidden gems in every city. And of course, I cherish time with family and friends — those moments really recharge me and spark creativity.

Q. Social media can be empowering, but also intense. How do you manage your digital presence while staying mentally grounded?

Sara Ali Khan: Social media is like that one friend who’s fun but also a little extra sometimes! It’s great for connection and creativity, but it also comes with trolls, comparisons, and pressure to look perfect. I try not to take it too seriously — focus on the good vibes, scroll past the noise, and remember that my worth isn’t measured in likes. At the end of the day, life off-screen is where the real magic happens!

Q. During hectic shoot schedules, do you have any rituals that keep you calm?

Sara Ali Khan: My morning workout is non-negotiable; it helps me centre myself before the chaos begins. Travelling gives me perspective, and a long, indulgent shower is my personal reset button. That’s my moment to switch off and enjoy the simple joy of bathing — especially with ITC Fiama’s Moisturising Bars with Japanese Hokkaido Milk. These small rituals keep me ready for whatever the day brings.

Q. What’s your go-to workout when motivation is low?

Sara Ali Khan does Pilates with trainer Namrata Purohit. (Source: Namrata Purohit/Instagram)

Sara Ali Khan: Honestly, the promise of a great shower after is what gets me moving! That post-workout moment is pure joy — it cools me down, lifts my mood, and resets everything. So even on lazy days, I remind myself: move a little, do some Pilates, go for a walk — and then reward yourself. A good playlist and a great lather can do wonders!

Q. How would you describe your style?

Sara Ali Khan: Quirky, comfortable, and unapologetic! I love experimenting with colours and prints, but comfort is key — in both style and life. Your look should always reflect who you are, even if that means a little namaste one day and full glam the next.

Q. What’s in your ‘do-not-judge’ jar of guilty pleasures?

Sara Ali Khan: Oh, that jar’s overflowing! My top three?

• Cheesy 2000s Bollywood songs — the more dramatic, the better.
• Midnight desserts — if there’s sugar in the house past 11 PM, it’s gone.
• Over-the-top reality TV — where nothing makes sense, but I can’t stop watching.

Q. If your life had a soundtrack, what song would it be?

Sara Ali Khan: Definitely Dil Dhadakne Do! It’s energetic, a little chaotic, and always moving forward — just like me. But some days it’s Aaj Kal Zindagi when I’m introspective, or Afreen Afreen when I’m pretending I’m in a music video mid-shower.

Q. If you weren’t an actor, what would you be doing?

Sara Ali Khan: Probably a full-time shayara! Writing couplets, reciting them at parties, maybe even running an Insta series called Sara Ki Shayari, Sab Pe Bhaari! On a serious note, I’ve always loved writing and studied history and politics, so maybe something in media or academics. But whatever it would be, there’d still be drama, poetry, and a lot of me.

Q. Your father, Saif Ali Khan, has been a major influence. What’s the most important lesson you’ve learnt from him?

Sara Ali Khan: The biggest lesson from my father is balance. He’s shown me how to value work without losing sight of personal happiness. Watching him manage his career while staying grounded and kind has shaped how I view success. I try to live by that — to stay real, respectful, and rooted no matter what.

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