Sonil Dedhia (MID-DAY; February 17, 2018)

While father Saif Ali Khan has accepted that his year-old son Taimur will always attract media attention, the tot’s grandfather, Randhir Kapoor, is troubled by the lack of privacy for children of celebrities. Arguing that his grandson has the right to a “normal childhood”, the veteran reflects on his own upbringing.

“Our parents ensured that we live a normal life. We knew that our father [Raj Kapoor] was an important and celebrated man. But, that’s it. It did not affect our childhood. We were never allowed to go to the studio, except on a Sunday,” said Kapoor. Stating that his generation also ensured that their children lead a lifestyle far distanced from the limelight, he added, “We gave a normal life to our children. So, my grandkids also have the right to a regular childhood. But, that seems unlikely.”

Speaking on the sidelines of an event in the city, Kapoor was accompanied by brother, Rishi, who ridiculed the way fashion had taken over the industry. “I see my family’s photos in the papers every day. They are tagged, ‘gym look’, or ‘airport look’,” said Randhir, while Rishi added that “chautha [funeral] looks” are also a trend. Randhir said, “It’s really sad to be hounded by photographers all the time. They are stationed 24/7 below Taimur’s home, and at Kareena’s gym. We are normal people and need our privacy. It’s not good for children to go through this.”