The actor talks about having a professionally amazing 2020, Christmas and the Santa(s) in her life
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; December 25, 2020)

She’s fun, driven, and is making her presence felt in the industry one film at a time. After making a successful debut in Bollywood with Dhadak (2018), actor Janhvi Kapoor surprised everyone with a web anthology, Ghost Stories. And then came Gunjan Saxena — The Kargil Girl, which was appreciated by audiences and critics alike. Lined up next for the actor are biggies such as Dostana 2, Takht and RoohiAfzana. Christmas this time is a merrier and sweeter affair for this 23-year-old. We get talking about the year so far and the festival:

The year 2020 was like Santa giving you your presents early, with both Ghost Stories and Gunjan Saxena garnering appreciation. How would you sum it up?
It was a huge learning experience for me. Rather than the outcome of these projects, it’s in the experience of making them, and getting the opportunity to shoot. There’s Dostana 2 and Takht next... a lot of work happening. To be able to do that is the best phase in my life. Working with different stars and characters has been fruitful.

Were you prepared for a direct to OTT release of Gunjan, since theatres had shut down due to the Coronavirus crisis?
I wasn’t, as while making it we didn’t anticipate an OTT release at all. But given the circumstances, it has really taught me the power and reach of OTT. In this scenario, it’s been a blessing. The idea of making a film is for it to reach audiences For that, I am thankful that at least, my work reached them, and my hard work was appreciated.

What’s your fondest childhood memory of Christmas?
I used to be obsessed with Christmas as a child. I remember, in school, we always had this carnival that the students would put together. It would be in the middle of our school turf. My best friend and I would always bully each other. On one Christmas, I had cut his hair earlier in the day to irritate him, so he threw me in the inflatable pool right in the middle of the Christmas carnival, in front of everyone! Then we got into a lot of trouble. But that was always a thing to look forward to.

Who would you call the Santa in your life? What’s the best present you got from them?
The Santa in my life are actually both my parents (Boney Kapoor and late Sridevi). They have given me a lot of love, support, encouragement, and reassurance. Those are the best gifts. They have equipped me and Khushi (sister) with a lot of security, and love, enough for us to never harbour bitter feelings.

What gift are you wishing for from Santa this time?
Work! Lots and lots of amazing work, and opportunities to learn. I want more work.