• Fashion

Katrina Kaif: On Marriage, Time-Travelling, and Becoming the Global Brand Ambassador of Rado

The actor opens up in an exclusive with The Word..
  • ByRadhika Bhalla

Actor and entrepreneur Katrina Kaif has been appointed as the Global Brand Ambassador of Swiss watchmaker brand, Rado.

There’s something about Katrina… The 40-year-old continues to defy expectations as a force to reckon with, two decades since her debut in Bollywood with Boom [2003]. A delightful mix of drop-dead-gorgeous looks, ambition, and putting in the hard work to see her dreams come true, the actor and entrepreneur has proven herself time and again. In fact, in a recent interview with her husband, actor Vicky Kaushal, whom she married in 2021, Vicky revealed that Katrina is extremely disciplined about her work—a perfectionist at heart… It is, then, a fitting match that Katrina has been appointed as the Global Brand Ambassador for iconic Swiss watchmaker brand, Rado.

The power of time has been an important theme across Katrina’s life, as is evident in this exclusive conversation with The Word., where Katrina opens up about like never before—from details about her fondest memories to what she gravitates to when it comes to her personal style. “The best moment of my life was, undoubtedly, when I got married [in 2021]. It was a moment filled with joy, love, and the promise of a beautiful future together,” Katrina revealed in this special tête-à-tête with us. Not just that, Katrina takes us down memory lane about when she turned 18, her love for classic pieces, and even what she would do differently if she could go back in time to a younger version of herself…

The Word. presents a special feature with Katrina Kaif, as she speaks about about life, love, and more…

The Word.: Tell us about your association with Rado as its Global Brand Ambassador…

Katrina Kaif: “My collaboration with Rado came about through a mutual appreciation for excellence and a shared commitment to timeless design. Rado’s reputation for precision and innovation in watchmaking has always impressed me, and I have been a long-time admirer of their creations. When the opportunity to collaborate with Rado arose, it felt like a natural fit.

Our discussions revolved around the synergy between my personal style and Rado’s timeless watches, which emphasise a blend of classic and contemporary elements. I was drawn to their dedication to craftsmanship, innovation, and the enduring quality of their timepieces, which mirrored my own approach to my career in the entertainment industry.

The collaboration was a beautiful coming together of shared values and a passion for perfection. It has been a fantastic journey, and I am excited to represent a brand that echoes my own commitment to excellence.”

TW.: What has been the best time of your life?

KK: “The best moment of my life was undoubtedly when I got married. It was a moment filled with joy, love, and the promise of a beautiful future together. What made it so incredible was the deep connection and commitment that Vicky and I share. The support of our families and friends, the heartfelt vows, and the celebration that followed created unforgettable memories. It marked the beginning of a new, wonderful chapter in my life, and I am grateful for the love and happiness that marriage has brought.”

TW.: What is the greatest change that marriage has brought to your life?

KK: “Marriage has brought a wonderful sense of partnership and stability to my life. It is the deep, emotional connection and unwavering support from my husband that have been the greatest change. We share our dreams, joys, and challenges, making life’s journey even more fulfilling. It is a beautiful new chapter, and I am grateful for the love and companionship it has brought into my world.”

TW.: If you could turn back time, what’s the one thing you would do sooner?

KK: “If I could travel back in time, I would explore acting much sooner. I began my career as a model and then transitioned into the film industry. Looking back, I realise that acting was my true passion, and I wish I had taken that leap earlier.

It’s been an incredible journey, but I believe I could have honed my craft and taken on more diverse roles if I had started sooner. Nonetheless, I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and excited for what the future holds in my acting career.”

TW.: What is your earliest memory of a watch?

KK: “My very first timepiece was a birthday gift from my parents, for when I turned 18—a beautiful Rado watch. I remember the day vividly, and it makes me so happy, even today. It was a symbol of a new chapter in my life, and I proudly wore it on many significant occasions.

The Rado watch was a stunning piece with a sleek, minimalist design that instantly caught my eye. I cherished that watch not only for its exceptional craftsmanship but also for the sentimental value it held.”

TW.: What kind of timepieces do you gravitate towards and how do you style them?

KK: “I enjoy wearing classic timepieces with a touch of femininity…watches that have a timeless design. When it comes to styling, I like to strike a balance. While I enjoy pairing my watch with other accessories like bracelets or rings, to create a coordinated look, I also appreciate the simplicity of wearing the watch on its own. It really depends on the occasion and my mood.”

TW.: How do you manage your personal time, between work, family, fun, and self-care?

KK: “Managing my personal time can be a bit of a juggling act, but it is crucial to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Family is incredibly important to me, and I make sure to spend quality time with them whenever I can. As for work, I am fortunate to be in a profession I’m passionate about, so it does not always feel like work.

I also believe in the importance of self-care. Whether it is hitting the gym, practicing yoga, or just taking time to relax, I prioritise self-care to stay grounded and focused. Moreover, of course, having fun is necessary! I love to travel, explore new places, and experience different cultures. It is a great way to recharge and gain new perspectives.

Ultimately, for me, it is about setting priorities and being flexible when necessary. Life can get busy, but finding that balance between work, family, fun, and self-care is key to staying happy and fulfilled.”

TW.: What, according to you, are the most attractive qualities in a woman?

KK: “I believe the most attractive qualities in a woman go beyond physical attributes. Confidence, intelligence, kindness, and a strong sense of self are incredibly appealing, in my opinion. A sense of humour and the ability to be compassionate and empathetic also make a woman very attractive. One’s inner beauty and qualities shine through in the actions and interactions, which I find most captivating.”

Image: Courtesy Rado.