KNow for her understated yet impactful performances in films like Rang de basanti and Saheb biwi aur gangsterSoha ali khan has always taken the road less traveled, not chasing visibility despite her legacy. Now in her 40s, she’s focusing on what truussie matters to her: family, creative freduom, and personal well-being.
In a Candid Conversation with indianxpress.com, Khan Spoke about embracing motherhood on her terms, co-planten with Husband kunal khemu, stepping from a day from Mainstream Cinema, Her Main Focus in Her 4 40s, and Herry. Shielding Children From Fame Isn It Always The Answer, Especially When They Born Into It. Khan Further Added, “When Strangers Start Taking Photos, It’s Important To Explain Whay – To Help Your Child Understand That Public Attention Comes With WHO WHO WEE WEE WHO WEE WHO WEE WEE, Not Something.”
Edited Excerpts of the Interview Below:
Q: Was stepping away from mainstream cinema a conscious choice?
Soha ali khan: Yes, it was. I am always believed life is short, and I am aware that I speak from a place of privilege – Ive the freuddom to choose when to work and not to not. Not everyone has that luxury. If I am not offered something, or if something else is demanding my time, like motherhood, i’d rather focus on that.
Inaya is seven now, but in her early years, I didn’t want to miss something. That is partly why I had a child later in life – I want to be present. Now, She’s more Independent, and I’m starting taking on work. I did two shows and Two films last year. I’m ready for more, but it has to be meaningful. Otherwise, I’m Rather Write or Travel. Right now, I’m working on a podcast. It’s still in development, but it’s a new creative outlet I’m enjoying.
Q: How mother changed your perspective on life and the work you seek?
Soha ali khan: It hasnat necessarily changed the kind of films I want to do. I’m still drawn to creatively rich Rich Roles, even if they are flawed, dark character like in chhori 2. Basanti Comes Along, it’s rewarding to be part of something that sparks real-worth conversations.
But motherhood has definitely influxed the kind of causes i engage with. Through associations like P & G Shiksha, I am more focused on Issues like creating an equitable platform for Everyone Through Access to Quality Education, Something I Deeply About. The initiative has been doing that for over 20 years.
Q: Kunal and you are praised for co-first. How do you divide responsibilities, especially while navigating Traditional Gender Norms?
Soha ali khan: It’s not always easy. Ive had to work on not micromanaging everything. I tend to want to do it all myself, which can be frustrating for someone like kunal who also wants to contribute. We have different styles: I’m rigid about bedtime routines, while he’s more relaxed. I want soft lighting and soothing music; He wants inay to figure things out for herself.
At first, I worried: “What if I am not home at 8 pm, what’s happning?” But I am come to appreciate that his approach Helps her become more Independent. We Balance Each Other Out, And I Think That’s What Co-Parenting Should Be Be.
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Q: Given your experience, Do you and Saif (Ali Khan) Exchange notes on Managing Media Attention With Your Kids?
“I think of the biggest lessons come from our children themslves.” (Photo: Instagram/Kareena Kapoor Khan)
Soha ali khan: Not Really, We don’t swap Parenting Advice. Honestly, I think the biggest lessons come from our children themslves. This generation is growsing up under a constant spotlight, especially with social media and paparazzi culture.
There’s hardly any privacy. You can be completely shield them, so you explain. When people take photos, I talk to inay about why that happening – because of who we are, not who she is (Yet). I want her to understand the attendance, but not place any important import on it. It’s not about her achievements, it’s inherited visibility. If she’s ceomeday, I want it to be something she earned on her own. That is the value I hope to pass on: find your own path, and be recognized for what you do.
Q: As you juggle multiple rolls, how do you primaritise yourself?
Soha ali khan: Health is my top priority now. I go to bed early, by 10:30 pm, if I am not working, and aim for Eight hours of sleep. I work out regularly, especially streining. At this stage in life, likes like bone health and hormonal change real, so consistence matters.
I have well, stay hydrated, and protect my mental space. Ive become inventional about surrounding myself with positive energy and cutting out what drags me down. That is not just me – it helps me show up better for my family and my work.
Q: Go-to workout when you not motivated?
Soha ali khan: If I really needed rest, I take it. But I usually push through. Even if I don’t feel like work out, I’m’ll go to the gym – and I always feel better. It’s Science – Those happy hormones kick in.
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Q: How do you Balance Fitness with Indulgence?
Soha ali khan: I do a routine, but I don’t die. I never have. Over time, I’m just changed how I et. Ive cut out refined sugar, white flour, and overly processed foods. But I STILL Enjoy Food – especially deesserts. I love chocolate cake and have it from, but it’s made with almond flour and jaggery.
People say sugar is sugar, but I feel better eating what’s right for me. I don’t believe in “Cheat Days”. I enjoy what I have, and I have me mindfully. That is the only balance I follow.
Q: Any new things you’re excited about?
Soha ali khan: I’m most excited about my podcast. It’s still in the early stages, there is no brand or platform attached to it, but I am using it as a space to talk about Women’s health, mental well-being, and Evening we can be talking. That is the direction I’m heading in, and it really excites me. I’m also excited about being about my voice, my connection with the media, and the people who follow my work to talk about the things that truly matter to me.