You know that feeling when your partner is so incredibly driven and talented that it almost, just for a second, makes you question your own life choices? It turns out even movie stars aren’t immune to it.
In a resurfaced interview that’s finding a new life online, Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor opened up about a surprisingly relatable sentiment in his relationship with wife and fellow superstar Alia Bhatt. He admitted that her relentless passion and diverse skillset sometimes made him feel like an “underachiever.”
The Candid Admission That Started It All
The quote comes from a 2020 roundtable discussion hosted by Film Companion, where Ranbir Kapoor was in conversation with other top actors. The topic turned to preparation and dedication to the craft. It was then that Ranbir Kapoor , completely unprompted, used Alia as the ultimate benchmark for commitment.
“She probably took every class there is,” Ranbir Kapoor said, with a tone of genuine awe. “From guitar to screenwriting, to every possible thing. Sometimes I feel like an underachiever next to her.”
This wasn’t a moment of self-pity. Instead, it was a heartfelt and honest acknowledgment of his wife’s voracious appetite for learning and self-improvement. It highlighted a dynamic that many fans find endearing about one of Bollywood’s most powerful couples.
Why Alia Bhatt Embodies the “Constant Learner” Mindset
Ranbir Kapoor’s comment isn’t just a sweet anecdote; it’s rooted in observable fact. Alia Bhatt‘s career is a testament to what happens when prodigious talent meets an unquenchable thirst for growth.
From the beginning, Alia has been known for her meticulous approach. She famously trained for months in martial arts, weightlifting, and Kalaripayattu for her role in Udta Punjab. But her interests extend far beyond the immediate needs of a script.
She has spoken openly about taking screenwriting classes simply to understand the anatomy of a story better. She learned to play the guitar for a film and continued practicing long after. She’s a certified yoga practitioner, a successful entrepreneur with her clothing brand Ed-a-Mamma, and an avid reader who often shares book recommendations with her millions of followers.
This “constant learner” mindset is a key part of her brand and, clearly, a major point of admiration from her husband.
A Partnership Built on Mutual Admiration
What makes Ranbir Kapoor’s confession so powerful is that it comes from a place of security and support, not insecurity. This is a pattern in their relationship. They frequently use interviews and public appearances to lift each other up.
Alia, in turn, has never been shy about her admiration for Ranbir’s natural acting prowess and his deep understanding of cinema. She has often called him her “first resource” for discussing scripts and characters. She values his instinctive approach, which contrasts with her more structured, preparatory method.
This creates a compelling dynamic: the meticulous planner and the intuitive performer. Instead of clashing, their differences seem to create a balanced and supportive partnership where each one’s strengths complement the other’s.
The Takeaway: It’s About Inspiration, Not Comparison
While the headline “Ranbir Kapoor feels like an underachiever” might seem dramatic, the real story is much more positive. It’s a reminder that in a healthy relationship, your partner’s strengths shouldn’t make you feel small; they should inspire you to be a better version of yourself.
It normalizes having moments of self-doubt, even for someone as successful as Ranbir Kapoor. The key is to channel that feeling into motivation rather than letting it breed resentment. After all, having a life partner who challenges and inspires you is a gift, not a threat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When did Ranbir Kapoor say he felt like an underachiever next to Alia?
He made the comments during a 2020 actors’ roundtable conversation hosted by Film Companion. The clip has recently gone viral again on social media.
Q2: What has Alia Bhatt learned that impressed Ranbir so much?
Ranbir specifically mentioned screenwriting and guitar lessons. Alia is also known for training extensively in various physical disciplines for roles, practicing yoga, and building a successful business, showcasing a very wide range of skills.
Q3: How did Alia Bhatt respond to Ranbir’s comments?
There wasn’t a direct public response to this specific comment. However, their public interactions consistently show mutual respect and admiration. Alia often praises Ranbir’s natural acting talent and seeks his advice on her work.
Q4: Are Ranbir and Alia considered a power couple in Bollywood?
Absolutely. With a combined filmography of critical and commercial hits, numerous awards, and massive fan followings, Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt are widely regarded as one of the most influential and talented couples in the Indian film industry today.
Q5: What is the key takeaway from this story?
The story is less about comparison and more about admiration. It highlights that in a strong relationship, you can celebrate your partner’s achievements without feeling diminished. Their different approaches to work and life seem to create a supportive and balanced partnership.
What do you think? Does having a hyper-driven partner inspire you or intimidate you? It’s a fine line, but as Ranbir and Alia show, the healthiest relationships are built on turning that feeling into pure, supportive admiration.
Want to see the original interview? You can find clips from the Film Companion Roundtable on YouTube to hear the candid conversation for yourself.