Karisma Kapoor recounted the challenging conditions of 1990s film sets, contrasting them sharply with today’s luxuries. She described changing behind bushes and seeking makeshift solutions for basic needs. The actress highlighted the technological advancements, recalling a time when actors only saw footage upon the film’s release, expressing gratitude for witnessing Indian cinema’s evolution.
Karisma Kapoor may belong to Bollywood’s iconic Kapoor family, but her journey in the film industry was far from easy. Looking back at her early years, the actress revealed how tough shooting conditions were in the 1990s—when vanity vans, digital monitors, and on-set luxuries were unheard of, and actors often had to make do with the bare minimum.
Struggles on film sets in the 90s
While speaking at a Ladies Study Group event last year, she described the challenges actors faced on film sets in the 90s—often changing behind bushes and walking long distances just to find a bathroom, with the crew jokingly whispering about it. Having spent 32 years in the industry, she said those experiences now feel almost unbelievable.
Finding makeshift solutions
Karisma further shared how actors had to be resourceful during shoots. She recalled stopping at roadside shops or even knocking on doors to ask if they could change clothes while filming songs outdoors. Comparing it to today’s film industry—with rows of luxury trailers, advanced digital technology, and top-class sound systems—she said the transformation has been nothing short of unbelievable.
How technology changed filmmaking
The actress also reflected on how filmmaking technology has changed over the years. She recalled that in her early days, actors only dubbed their lines and never got to see the footage while shooting. The first time she saw herself on a monitor was during the Dance of Envy sequence in Dil To Pagal Hai. Until then, the cast would only see the final result when the film released on the big screen in 70mm.Having grown up in Raj Kapoor’s legendary family, Karisma said she feels fortunate to have seen the film industry’s transformation up close. She expressed gratitude for being able to share her own journey while also witnessing how far Indian cinema has progressed over the years.
