- Wednesday, June 25, 2025
On her birthday, Karisma Kapoor recalled how her pet name Lolo came from Gina Lollobrigida and a Sindhi sweet dish, while Kareena’s famous nickname Bebo was chosen by their father Randhir Kapoor.
By: Vibhuti Pathak
Bollywood’s beloved diva Karisma Kapoor is celebrating her 51st birthday today. Known for her memorable performances in films like Dil To Pagal Hai (1997) and Zubeidaa (2001), Karisma has won hearts not only with her acting skills but also with her bubbly and relatable off-screen personality.
As fans join in the celebrations, it’s a perfect moment to revisit a delightful interaction where Karisma revealed the story behind her pet name ‘Lolo’ and shared how her sister Kareena Kapoor Khan got her nickname ‘Bebo’.
How ‘Lolo’ Came to Be
Earlier this year, Karisma appeared on Indian Idol 15 during a special episode commemorating the 100th birth anniversary of their legendary grandfather, Raj Kapoor.
During the show, she was asked about the origin of her pet name, ‘Lolo’. Karisma explained that the name was inspired by the famous foreign actress Gina Lollobrigida. She said, “Foreign actress hai, Gina Lollobrigida, haan. Toh wahan se Lolo aa gaya.”
View this post on Instagram
Additionally, Karisma shared a sweet cultural connection behind the name. Her mother, being Sindhi, affectionately calls a sweet flatbread “meethi loli,” and sometimes uses the term ‘Lolo’ as an endearment. Karisma added, “Toh wahan se Lolo, aur yahan se toh papa ne rakh liya unki taraf se,” highlighting how the nickname beautifully blends family influences.
Kareena Kapoor Khan’s Nickname ‘Bebo’
Karisma also shed light on how her younger sister Kareena Kapoor Khan earned her popular nickname ‘Bebo’. She humorously recalled, “Toh jab Bebo aa gayi, toh sab soch rahe the abhi inka bhi kuchh funny sa, cute sa naam hona chahiye.”
View this post on Instagram
With siblings already having playful nicknames like Dabbu, Chintu, Chimpu, and Lolo, it was only natural that Kareena would have one too. Karisma revealed that it was their father who chose ‘Bebo’ for Kareena, adding a personal touch to the family tradition of nicknames.
A Glimpse into Raj Kapoor’s Pet Name
The affectionate revelations didn’t stop there. Karisma surprised fans by sharing a little-known fact about their iconic grandfather Raj Kapoor’s pet name.
She said, “Aaj tak National TV pe kisi ko nahi pata, ki dada ji (Raj Kapoor) ka bhi ek pet name tha. Unko Raje bulate the.” She explained that the nickname ‘Raje’ was inspired by his princely looks, fair complexion, and blue eyes, which made him resemble a ‘rajkumar’ (prince).
Celebrating with Love and Sweetness
This heartwarming glimpse into the Kapoor family’s nicknames adds a charming layer to Karisma Kapoor’s birthday celebrations. The blend of cultural roots, family bonds, and playful affection behind these pet names makes the occasion even more special.
As Karisma turns 51, fans and well-wishers send their love and hope her day is as sweet and delightful as the Sindhi dish that inspired her beloved nickname ‘Lolo’.
