Mumbai: Actor Karisma Kapoor has revealed that a vintage watch inherited from her grandfather, legendary actor-filmmaker Raj Kapoor, is her most precious possession. The watch was passed on to her by her father, actor Randhir Kapoor, making it a cherished family heirloom with deep emotional significance.
Known for her elegant fashion choices and love for statement accessories, Karisma said the vintage timepiece holds a special place in her collection. Unlike other accessories, its value comes not from its design or brand but from the generations of family history attached to it.
During a conversation with Variety India, the actor spoke about the watch and explained how it came into her possession. She revealed that it was her first watch and that her father had inherited it from Raj Kapoor.
“My first watch was handed down to me by my father (Randhir Kapoor). He had received it from his father (Raj Kapoor). It is extremely precious to me. It is vintage, and that’s the beauty of the watch. It has an emotional value,” Karisma said.
A family heirloom with generations of memories
The watch carries a personal connection to three generations of the Kapoor family. Raj Kapoor, one of the most influential figures in Indian cinema, passed it on to his son Randhir Kapoor, who later gave it to Karisma.
For the actor, the timepiece represents more than a fashion accessory. It is a reminder of her family legacy and the bond she shares with her father and grandfather. Its vintage character adds to its appeal, but Karisma’s comments make it clear that its sentimental value is what makes it irreplaceable.
The actor’s revelation also offers a glimpse into her personal approach to fashion. While she is often seen experimenting with stylish outfits and accessories, she continues to value pieces that have a story behind them.
A watch can be associated with luxury, craftsmanship and personal style, but Karisma’s description highlights another aspect of such possessions: their ability to preserve family memories. The fact that it was her first watch makes the heirloom even more meaningful to her.
Karisma Kapoor says she does not follow fashion trends
Speaking about her fashion preferences, Karisma said she does not make a conscious effort to follow changing trends. Having been part of the film industry since the 1990s, she has witnessed several fashion movements come and go. However, she prefers styles that suit her personality rather than simply adopting what is popular.
The actor also identified one beauty trend from the 1990s that she continues to enjoy: dark brown lipstick.
“To be honest, I don’t follow trends. But something I used to do in the ’90s and I love today as well is a dark brown lip,” she said.
Dark brown lipstick was a prominent beauty choice during the decade and remains a recognisable part of several retro-inspired makeup looks. Karisma’s preference reflects her fondness for a style that has stayed relevant to her over the years.
Her comments also underline the difference between following a trend and maintaining a personal style. While fashion preferences may change with time, certain colours, silhouettes and beauty choices can remain favourites because of their familiarity and timeless appeal.
Blue jeans and white salwar kameez remain her wardrobe favourites
When asked about the clothing pieces she could wear regularly, Karisma named two classic options: blue jeans and a simple white salwar kameez.
“I’d definitely say it’s classic blue jeans or a simple, white salwar kameez. That is something you can keep wearing all the time,” she said.
Both choices reflect her preference for versatile clothing that can be worn on different occasions. Blue jeans have remained a staple in everyday fashion because they can be paired with a range of tops and accessories. A white salwar kameez, meanwhile, offers a traditional and understated option that does not depend on seasonal trends.
Karisma’s choices also show how her personal wardrobe balances contemporary and traditional styles. Rather than relying entirely on elaborate outfits, she appreciates simple clothing that can be worn repeatedly.
Her preference for these classic pieces is consistent with her statement that she does not actively follow trends. For the actor, comfort, familiarity and timeless appeal appear to be important considerations when choosing everyday outfits.
Fans continue to recreate her iconic film looks
Karisma also spoke about the lasting popularity of her fashion choices in films. Several outfits worn by the actor during the 1990s and early 2000s continue to inspire fans, with audiences recreating her looks at parties, celebrations and social media events.
She specifically mentioned Dil To Pagal Hai, Raja Hindustani and Hero No. 1 as films whose costumes continue to be remembered by audiences.
The actor said she feels honoured that people still enjoy the clothes she wore in those films. She also expressed happiness that fans continue to dance to her songs and revisit the work she was part of several years ago.
“I feel honoured, lucky and grateful that there are so many people out there who recreate my looks today and enjoy wearing those clothes. They love dancing to my songs as well. I am happy that it is continuing. People are still enjoying our efforts from many years ago,” she shared.
The continued interest in her film wardrobes reflects the influence of 1990s Bollywood fashion. From colourful costumes and coordinated outfits to traditional ensembles and memorable dance numbers, the styling in these films became part of popular culture.
For many viewers, the outfits are closely associated with the characters and songs that made the films memorable. The fact that fans continue to recreate them decades later is a reminder of the lasting connection between cinema, fashion and popular trends.
A personal style shaped by memories and timeless choices
Karisma’s conversation with Variety India brought together two aspects of her relationship with fashion: her appreciation for personal and family history, and her preference for classic styles.
The vintage watch inherited from Raj Kapoor remains especially meaningful because it connects her to her family’s past. Her fondness for dark brown lipstick, blue jeans and a white salwar kameez, meanwhile, reflects her preference for choices that remain close to her personal style.
Her comments also show how the impact of an actor’s fashion can extend beyond the screen. While trends change, some film looks continue to inspire new generations of fans.
For Karisma, however, the most precious accessory is not defined by its appearance or monetary value. It is the vintage watch passed down through her family, carrying memories of her father and grandfather.