Kareena Kapoor Khan. A name synonymous with an intermittent and sporadic career, blessed with a gorgeous face and a glorious lineage, is always a blink away from losing it all, in that very blink. Kareena is no exception to spasmodic spells, or simply put irregularities.

An arduous research of her 18-year-long journey leads us to conclude that her filmography has had a pattern not very difficult to decode - the film may fly or fail, thou (read Kareena) shalt pass the Friday test with flying colors. Because beneath the layers of makeup and classy couture is a girl with outstanding marketing skills who we should thank for the brand called KAREENA KAPOOR KHAN.

Born into the first family of Bollywood and later injected into the Nawab blood, Kareena could have one of those many actresses who let time and legacy take charge of their professional lives. But what a waste of Kapoor genes and Nawab-ness would that have been? And our birthday girl here is not the kind to let anyone row the boat for her. She dances to the beat of only her own drum - a fact she established since her induction in this industry. Nobody calls the shots for Bebo because 'Main apni favourite hoon.'

So how has Kareena managed to be the superstar she is for nearly two decades but with hits and flops fair and square in her kitty? Darling, the answer requires your attention and envy in equal parts.

"Juice, coffee, tea...or ME?"

The variety pack of Kareena starrers is a complete failproof deal. When you cannot whistle at her enviable midsection and pepper-coated dialogues, the actress is busy lifting offbeat scripts to celluloid glory. Bebo has always had the best of trade pundits and film critics on her side. If you loved her in K3G, Don, 3 Idiots, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Veere Di Wedding you have equally lauded her prowess in Chameli, Omkara, Yuva, and Udta Punjab. Equilibrium maintained.

"Narg mein hoon par swarg ka raasta jaanti hoon." (NAME THE MOVIE!)

Perhaps one lesson Kareena jotted down in her diary early on was to be in the good books of the media. It is mention worthy that the actress, in fact, has always been forthcoming towards the spotlight and very much enjoys being the cynosure of attention. She plays her cards by the classic, age-old trick - lay out a bait and hang by the hook.

"Kaun hai yeh jisne Poo ko mudh kar nahi dekha? Who is he?"

In totality, a considerable section of celebrities is media shy and unwelcoming with the focus on their personal life. And then there's Kareena, cashing on the very same formula. And mind you that despite being the pap-friendly actress, desperation is nowhere close to seeping through. A foolproof set of replies, blunt through the teeth and razor-sharp intelligence is what forms the narrative of the life of this 'diva.'

Whilst Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone were busy dialing the world in on their resume, yours truly was happily flaunting her baby bump putting her rather jealousy-worthy pregnancy glow and wardrobe on display. The figure (pay cheque) fight has never been her thing because she doesn't leave any dues you see!

"Hum jis raaste ko apnate hai, woh utna hi important hai jitni hamari manzil"

Another distinguishing factor has been her philanthropic achievements. She has been associated with the UNICEF and also owns a fashion line, a first for an actress in our world. She has penned three books and recently she contributed to a makeup brand's collection too. A regular on stands, iconic would be a titanic of an understatement. Speak of skills.

"Badhon se baat badhe hi kiya karte hai"

As the evergreen and ultimate personage turns 38, we raise a toast to the icon who made us believe in our beliefs and offered us confidence and class on a platter. Happy Birthday, Kareena Kapoor Khan.

But Poo, how dare you! Tumhara koi haq nahi banta ki tum itni khoobsurat lago! Not fair.