Karisma Kapoor recently shared the origins of her and her sister Kareena Kapoor Khan’s endearing nicknames, ‘Lolo’ and ‘Bebo.’ She revealed the fascinating details on the sets of Indian Idol 15, where the show paid tribute to Raj Kapoor’s centenary.
Karisma Kapoor Explains Her Nickname ‘Lolo’
During the episode, a contestant asked Karisma about the story behind her nickname, Lolo. Karisma revealed that her mother, Babita Kapoor, took inspiration from Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida. She further added that in Sindhi culture, a traditional flatbread called ‘Loli’ is quite popular, and the name ‘Lolo’ resonated with it. Karisma said:
“And my mother is a Sindhi, so we have one roti, it means loli, so we also call it Lolo. From there Lolo, from there and from here, Papa has kept it on her side.”
The Story Behind Kareena Kapoor Khan’s Nickname ‘Bebo’
Karisma also revealed how her father, Randhir Kapoor, chose Kareena’s nickname. She shared that after Kareena was born, the family wanted to give her a fun and adorable name, in line with their tradition of unique nicknames like Dabboo, Chintu, and Chimpu. Randhir Kapoor decided to call her Bebo. Karisma explained:
“So when Bebo was born, everyone thought that now she should also have some funny, cute name, this Dabbu, Chintu, Chimpu, Lolo, now Papa has kept them the name Bebo.”
Raj Kapoor’s Lesser-Known Nickname
Karisma Kapoor further revealed a lesser-known fact about her late grandfather, the legendary Raj Kapoor. She shared that Raj Kapoor’s pet name was Raji, as his fair complexion and blue eyes gave him a princely charm.
Karisma On Her Bond With Kareena Kapoor Khan
In an earlier interview, Karisma had expressed her close bond with Kareena, describing her sister as a blessing in her life. She highlighted their rare success as sisters working simultaneously in Bollywood, saying:
“I think there has never been a precedence where two sisters in Bollywood have been successful working simultaneously as heroines in the same decade or same generation. I think we have been lucky and fortunate to have had great careers.”
Kareena’s Decision To Reject Films Post-Marriage
Karisma also addressed Kareena’s decision to turn down multiple film offers after marrying Saif Ali Khan. She respected Kareena’s choice to be selective with her work, adding:
“ “She has been that kind of person. I think, right from her first film, she has done whatever she has wanted to do in her life, and I think that is the kind of person she is and we respect that.”
The Kapoor sisters’ nicknames—Lolo and Bebo—reflect a blend of cultural traditions and their family’s fun-loving nature.
What do you think about the stories behind these adorable nicknames?
