Actor Zareen Khan has addressed the controversy surrounding a resurfaced video in which she’s seen asking Katrina Kaif for an autograph. Originally shared by Zareen as a nostalgic throwback, the clip has since gone viral for reasons she never anticipated—some online users claimed Katrina appeared cold and dismissive in the moment.
Now, Zareen is clearing the air, saying the moment was meaningful to her and not meant to stir drama.
Zareen Khan On Her Viral Video With Katrina Kaif
Speaking on the Hindi Rush podcast, Zareen opened up about how the situation spiraled after she posted the clip.
“I found it so sad. I posted the video because it brought back a happy memory, but people are hungry for dirt, and that’s what they did,” she said.
Recalling the incident, she added: “In the video, I’m smiling from ear-to-ear like a fool. Katrina is a superstar. In those days, actors weren’t as comfortable as they are now with blending in with their fans. It wasn’t like everybody had access to stars earlier, so we can’t expect to be treated like best friends.”
She emphasized that it was a genuine fan moment: “I was a fan, and she was the star. Maybe something was going on in her mind that we aren’t aware of. It’s only others who are pointing out her expression, but for me, it was a special moment. If Katrina got trolled, so did I.”
No Ill Will Towards Katrina, Says Zareen
Zareen also pushed back against those who suggested the video was shared with malicious intent.
“I’m not a vicious person. If I was, I would probably be more successful,” she said with a hint of irony.
“She might have had 50 other things on her mind, she might have signed so many autographs already. Who knows? Sometimes, you’re not in a good mood because of some personal issues. I don’t think there was anything negative.”
The Video That Sparked It All
The video in question was taken at the premiere of Race, years before Zareen entered Bollywood. She had shared it online as a sweet fangirl memory, but many online viewers focused instead on Katrina’s body language. Some users felt Katrina’s demeanor shifted the moment she saw Zareen, noting she didn’t make eye contact or show much reaction, while Zareen appeared visibly thrilled.
Zareen, who has often been compared to Katrina for their physical resemblance, eventually made her debut opposite Salman Khan in Veer. But long before that, she was just another fan admiring her idol from afar.