Kriti on Geeta: “My strong opinions and belief in feminism and the fact that there shouldn’t be any kind of gender bias, comes from my mum,” says Kriti, adding, “She always stood up for herself and for the right. She achieved whatever she wanted to, whether it’s doing her PhD when she just had me, or writing and publishing a book later, to trying her hand at painting and crocheting. I’ve inherited my creative side from her..”

The 62-year-old tells us, “Kriti’s journey hasn’t been so smooth. Her first ramp show, her first photoshoot, both had issues, but she always strived to improve herself. I always wanted her to win a National Award and I had high hopes of it after Mimi (2022). But I couldn’t be sure and when it was announced, I felt so proud of her.”

It was mum Geeta’s efforts that made it possible for actor Kriti Sanon to enter showbiz. “When Kriti started modelling, my husband wasn’t completely supportive, but I knew that she knows what’s good and what’s bad for her,” Geeta tells us, adding, “Our relatives and friends also criticized our decision initially.”

Geeta admits that while she supported Kriti’s modelling career, she did have her own doubts when the youngster wanted to venture into acting. “It was the era of confident actresses such as Priyanka Chopra (Jonas) and Deepika Padukone. I wondered how she would fit in, since she would get bullied easily. So, initially, I had my doubts as I was scared for her. But she told me that she had faith in herself and would build her confidence gradually,” Geeta recalls.

What’s the sweetest gesture Kriti has extended to her mum? “We have always lived in a flat and I always wanted to have a bungalow where I could sit in the garden and have tea while playing with my grandkids. So, while looking at homes in Mumbai, she made sure it had a garden so that I could have that experience. She said, ‘Mama, I can fulfil the first part of your dream; the second part will take time’. And I am sure, it will also happen in its own time,” Geeta wraps up.