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This is an archive article published on January 22, 2010

Disappearing act

I’d heard so many stories about the city that had initially made me apprehensive but Mumbai has thankfully been welcoming and kind.

It’s been over a year that you debuted with Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi and almost two since you shifted to Mumbai from Bangalore. How’s the city treating you?
I’d heard so many stories about the city that had initially made me apprehensive but Mumbai has thankfully been welcoming and kind. It’s a city that nurtures growth and I have made it my home now. In fact,I am pretty familiar with the city since I used to visit Mumbai often for my modelling assignments. However,I don’t enjoy partying so I am unfamiliar with that aspect of the city.

After a hit debut opposite Shah Rukh Khan,you have practically gone into hiding. Why so?
I believe in quality work. When my film did well and I realised I had left a mark on people,I thought it is better to back off till I have something to say or my work to show. Unlike many others,I don’t and cannot hog limelight if I don’t have a reason to.

But doesn’t visibility help in the career of an actor?
It helps but only to an extent. After all,if I am seen often but my work is rejected,visibility won’t come to my rescue.

Do you find the industry too competitive and the pressure to give the next blockbuster too intimidating?
I can’t allow myself to be upset with the pressure. But I agree the pressure is unnecessary at times. The world has become too cynical—you don’t have to exercise the right of expressing your opinion just because you have it. Actors are judged on basis of everything from what they wear to how many times they have worn it before to their diet and their lives. That is not fair. However,it’s fine if one is judging my work—I am ready to accept criticism on that front.

How is the experience of working for another Yash Raj Films’ project?
I am having a fabulous time working on the film. People often ask me if I was hesitant about this film since it is Parmeet Sethi’s debut direction. But I was not because he has such clear vision. My co-star Shahid Kapoor is a great performer and as a person,he is as focused as I am. He lives and breathes his work and so we share a great equation. And my other co-star Vir Das is absolutely witty; it’s great fun just hanging out with him.

Have you limited yourself by signing the deal with YRF?
It’s just a three-film deal and not a contract. I am not forbidden from doing films outside of YRF banner. And that is why I am doing Patiala House opposite Akshay Kumar.

So what are you expecting from 2010?
Last year was all about gaining my foothold,contemplating and introspecting about the direction I need to head in. But 2010 is about stability. I have my hands full and am also the face of Parachute Advansed Hair Oil,a big brand in its field. I have tested the waters already and know that acting is the right career choice.


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