HER PET PROJECTS
Soha Ali Khan and her husband Kunal Kemmu have just written a children’s book for their daughter. The actor is determined to find a work schedule that puts her family first.
Q. You have written a book before, but how did you come to collaborate with husband Kunal Kemmu on
The idea came from him. Kunal likes to tell our daughter, Inaaya, stories off the top of his head. She and him collaborate on stories, and one was about Inaaya and an adopted puppy called Bobo. She’d keep asking to see a picture of Bobo. So, we thought of putting together a picture book for her birthday.
Q. You have adopted two indies (native Indian dogs), right?
We got them from World for All, an animal welfare organisation based in Mumbai. We bonded with Mishti but we had Masti, who wasn’t enjoying another dog in the house. My mother (Sharmila Tagore) took Mishti with her to Delhi. Then we adopted Nimki. We also have four strays in our home in Pataudi.
Q. How do you think the presence of a pet helps a child?
Pets are not toys. You have to touch animals in a certain way. There’s a level of consent involved, even if it is not verbal. There’s also the responsibility to feed them, to take them for walks. My father always taught me it’s important to have pets for children. He said it teaches you how to deal with loss and death, since chances are you will outlive your pet.
Q. You made your web series debut in 2022 with Kaun Banega
Shikharwati, and now have Hush Hush lined up. How do you decide what’s worth your time?
The people I work with, working hours, conditions are all important. I want to achieve a work-life balance, be home by my daughter’s bedtime.